2005 Lynch Bages
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Tasting notes
Blackish ruby. Not much nose but characteristic spice on the palate. And some inkiness. Cries out for food but it does build towards an interesting finish. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Aged for 15 months in oak barrels (80% new). Deep red colour. Full and ripe on the nose. Plush but fresh at the same time. Still youthful, although aromatically there’s a bit of evolution. Some sweetness to the fruit but balanced by the freshness. Big but refined tannins. Vigorous but balanced. Still plenty to play for. Lovely wine. (JL)
Deeper crimson than the Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2005 served alongside. Dense, spicy and opulent, this classic Pauillac stood up well to my pretty highly spiced, delicious, Chez Bruce classic dish. (JR)
The 2005 Château Lynch-Bages is terrific, with a ripe, yet also surprisingly elegant profile in its medium to full-bodied aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, graphite, and leather. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, it has ripe, nicely integrated tannins, good balance, and is already surprisingly accessible. I would drink bottles any time over the coming 10-15 years.
About the producer
Ch. Lynch-Bages is one of the largest and best properties in Pauillac, in the Médoc. While officially classified as a Fifth Growth estate, it regularly competes with the First and Second Growths when it comes to quality and ageability.