Remembering Daniel Cathiard: Co-Owner of Bordeaux’s Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte and Napa’s Cathiard Vineyard Passes Away at 81

Daniel Cathiard, co-owner of Bordeaux’s Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte and Napa’s Cathiard Vineyard, passed away on January 28 at the age of 81 after a sudden illness. His wife, Florence Cathiard, expressed her sorrow, stating he was true to himself until the end and beloved by everyone.

Born in Uriage les Bains, a ski resort town in the French Alps, Daniel came from a family deeply involved in grocery and wine businesses. His grandfather, a local négociant, introduced him to the world of wine from an early age. Daniel’s father expanded their grocery chain, allowing Daniel to prove his skiing talents as he made the French ski team.

In 1972, after his father’s illness, Daniel took over the family grocery chain, Genty-Cathiard. Alongside Florence and his sister, he modernized the business, eventually expanding into the sporting goods market with the successful chain Go Sport.

In 1989, after selling Genty and Go Sport for $40.8 million, Daniel sought a new direction. With a desire to create something artisanal, he turned to winemaking, recalling his fond memories of growing up above his grandfather’s cellars. His search led to buying Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte in Bordeaux for about $40 million, despite the estate being considered past its prime.

Daniel committed himself to improving the vineyard, embracing organic farming practices and reducing yield significantly to enhance the quality of the wine. He hired top consultants, restructured vineyard management, and focused on creating a luxury experience at the estate, which included building a spa and hotel.

In 2014, the Cathiards expanded their wine portfolio by acquiring four additional châteaux in Bordeaux and later purchased Flora Springs estate in Napa Valley, renaming it Cathiard Vineyard. Recently, they began transferring responsibilities to the next generation, including their daughters and sons-in-law. Daniel is survived by Florence, their daughters Mathilde Thomas and Alice Tourbier, their husbands, and several grandchildren.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

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