In Bond Fine Wine. 2012 Château Lynch Bages, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France. Fifth Growth • Red Bordeaux in 6x150cl. Top critic score: 94/100 (JM). Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Lynch Bages has roots stretching back to the 16th century and was transformed in the 18th century under the influential Lynch family. Much of its modern reputation is owed to the charismatic Jean-Michel Cazes, whose dynamic leadership from the 1970s onwards helped propel Lynch-Bages onto the world stage, combining traditional Pauillac character with a more polished, approachable style that won a global following. Lynch Bages combines the classic structure of Pauillac with a warmth and generosity that have made it a favourite of collectors and restaurants across the globe. Planted on superb deep gravel soils south of Pauillac, the wines combine impressive concentration with elegance and longevity. Lynch Bages continues to evolve while remaining one of Bordeaux’s most dependable and widely loved classed growths.
Robert Parker (RP) — 87–89/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 26/04/2013 · Drink 2013-2027
Some of Lynch Bages's tell-tale cedary, black currant, earth and spice characteristics are present in the 2012's moderately intense bouquet. This wine exhibits good purity, a healthy dark ruby/purple color and medium body. There is a slight deficiency in the mid-palate, but it recovers sufficiently and offers up a decent finish that tails off ever so slightly. This good to excellent wine could us…
Jancis Robinson MW (JR) — 16–17/20 · JancisRobinson.com, 24/04/2013 · Drink 2025-2040
Blackish purple. Lots of minerals on the nose. Tight and taut and almost painfully tart but there is energy here certainly!
James Molesworth (JMol) — 92/100 · Wine Spectator, 15/01/2015 · Drink 2018-2025
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.