Château Lynch-Bages 2019

The precision and fruit of a Pauillac Classified Growth

The estate
In the land of Batges at the gates of Pauillac, Château Lynch Bages is a property that has marked the history of the Médoc. While the Bages terroir has been known for its quality since the 16th century, it was only in the 18th that it became famous. With an Irishman by the name of Thomas Lynch at the helm of the estate, Château Lynch-Bages was recognised at the Universal Exhibition in Paris. The estate was acquired by the J-M Cazes family right after the Second World War. Château Lynch-Bages is today considered one of the most important references of the Pauillac appellation.

The vineyard
Planted in the Garonnais gravel soils of Pauillac, the 100-hectare vineyard of Château Lynch-Bages is today under the direction of Nicolas Labenne. Satellite technologies are employed for accurate plot division of the vineyard, as a way to preserve the wine heritage of the property. The homogeneous geology of the soil allows for a good supply of water to the vine in an area where the climate is moderate.

The vintage
Winter was characterised by mild temperatures, leading to an early bud burst. Flowering and fruit set took place consistently through a cool and sometimes humid spring. June brought high temperatures, contributing to the development of the vine. During this scorching summer, the vines were able to resist thanks to the sufficient water reserves accumulated during the winter of 2018. The harvest started in late September, under ideal conditions.

The winemaking
Manual harvest with sorting in the vineyard. Harvest from September 23 to October 9. Malolactic fermentation 1/3 in vats, 2/3 in barrels. Blending in December.

The ageing
18 months in French oak barrels. 75% new oak.

The blend
Cabernet sauvignon (70%), merlot (24%), cabernet franc (3%), petit verdot

The tasting
The Château Lynch Bages 2019 is in line with the previous wines of the property with a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. This great Bordeaux wine offers a characteristic fruity nose with fresh and spicy notes, as well as fine woody notes. The smooth and balanced palate is supported by a beautifully dense and powerful tannic structure, providing plenty of precision and fruit.