Appellation: Pauillac (Left Bank)
5th growth, Grand Cru Classe
Château Lynch Bages is one of the most well-known estates in Bordeaux. The name of this illustrious property is so ubiquitous that it is recognizable even for Bordeaux novices who are just beginning to learn about the Classified Growths in the Médoc. This is due to the tireless exploits of Jean-Michel Cazes, who was quite possibly one of the most active brand ambassadors of all time. This charming, charismatic man dedicated his life to a crusade promoting this Fifth Growth Pauillac estate, ensuring everybody knew about the greatness of Château Lynch Bages. He even agreed to send a half bottle of Château Lynch Bages to the moon in 1985, making sure it was the first wine in outer space. Echo de Lynch Bages is the property’s second wine, and it has the same impressive versatility of its older brother, the grand vin. Château Lynch Bages derives part of its name from the ancient village of Bages which was a commune for winemakers of many generations. It was classified as a Fifth Growth in 1855, and less than a hundred years later was acquired by the legendary Jean-Michel Cazes. Jean-Michel Cazes was already very well respected in the Wine Trade due to his ownership of Les Ormes de Pez, a leading Cru Bourgeoise estate located in St-Estéphe. He bought Château Lynch Bages shortly before World War II and the property has stated within the Cazes family ever since.
93-95. Barrel sample. The wine is very dry, layered tannins giving a major sense of structure. It will always have this dry, dense character, very firm, solid and powerful.
This has a very solid core of dark plum, crushed black currant and blackberry fruit, with lightly firm flesh and good drive through the finish, where alder and iron notes fill in. Shows excellent energy and depth, while harnessing the austere edge of the vintage. Best from 2018 through 2025.