Chateau Lynch Bages 2015

Winery Background and History

Château Lynch-Bages, located in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France, is a distinguished estate with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The estate derives its name from the Lynch family, of Irish descent, who owned the property for several generations. In 1855, during the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification, Château Lynch-Bages was classified as a Fifth Growth (Cinquième Grand Cru Classé), a testament to its quality and reputation. The estate spans approximately 90 hectares, predominantly planted with red grape varieties, and is situated on a gravel ridge overlooking the Gironde estuary, providing an ideal terroir for viticulture. The well-drained soil consists mainly of deep gravel beds over a limestone sub-strata, contributing to the unique character of the wines produced. Over the years, Château Lynch-Bages has garnered acclaim for its consistent production of high-quality wines that embody the classic characteristics of Pauillac.

Producer and Winemaker

Since 1973, Château Lynch-Bages has been under the ownership of the Cazes family, with Jean-Michel Cazes playing a pivotal role in elevating the estate’s status in the wine world. Today, the estate is managed by his son, Jean-Charles Cazes, who continues the family tradition of producing exceptional wines. The winemaking team at Château Lynch-Bages is dedicated to combining traditional methods with modern techniques to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of the estate.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Lynch-Bages cover approximately 90 hectares on a gravel ridge west of the town of Pauillac, in the small village of Bages. This elevated position provides excellent drainage and exposure to sunlight, essential for the optimal ripening of grapes. The soil composition is predominantly deep gravel beds over a limestone sub-strata, which contributes to the complexity and structure of the wines. The proximity to the Gironde estuary moderates the climate, reducing the risk of frost and promoting a temperate microclimate. The vineyards are planted with a mix of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, each contributing distinct characteristics to the final blend. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, focusing on maintaining the health of the vines and the environment. Techniques such as cover cropping, minimal use of chemicals, and careful canopy management are employed to ensure the production of high-quality grapes. The combination of soil, climate, and meticulous vineyard management results in wines that are expressive of their terroir and capable of aging gracefully.

Grape Varietals

The 2015 vintage of Château Lynch-Bages is composed of:

• 70% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 24% Merlot

• 4% Cabernet Franc

• 2% Petit Verdot

Vinification & Aging Methods

The vinification process at Château Lynch-Bages begins with meticulous sorting of the grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing precise control over the process and preserving the purity of the fruit flavors. Following fermentation, malolactic fermentation occurs primarily in stainless steel tanks, contributing to the wine’s smoothness and complexity. The wine is then aged for approximately 15 months in French oak barrels, with about 75% being new oak. This aging process imparts subtle oak characteristics and enhances the wine’s structure and aging potential. Throughout the aging period, the wine is regularly monitored and racked to achieve clarity and stability. The combination of traditional techniques and modern technology ensures that each vintage of Château Lynch-Bages reflects the estate’s commitment to quality and expression of its unique terroir.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2015 Château Lynch-Bages has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 13.5%.

Tasting Notes

The 2015 Château Lynch-Bages presents a deep garnet-purple color. On the nose, it offers aromas of crushed blackberries, black cherries, and dried herbs, with an earthy undercurrent. The palate is full-bodied and rich, featuring ripe black-currant and dark berry fruits, complemented by a marked but silky tannic structure. The finish is persistent, illustrating the ripeness of the vintage.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs excellently with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, and hearty dishes like cassoulet or beef stew. It also complements aged cheeses, particularly hard varieties like Comté or cheddar. The wine’s structure and depth enhance the flavors of rich, savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for various cuisines.

Service Methods and Temperatures

It is recommended to decant the 2015 Château Lynch-Bages for about an hour before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic profile. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F) to fully appreciate its complexity and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2015 vintage of Château Lynch-Bages is suitable for aging and is expected to develop further complexity over the next 10-15 years. Proper cellaring conditions, with a consistent temperature of around 12-15°C (54-59°F) and humidity levels of 70-75%, will ensure the wine matures gracefully.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 96/100

• Vinous: 96/100

• James Suckling: 95/100

• Wine Spectator: 94/100

• Wine Advocate: 92+/100