Château Lynch-Bages 2016

A smooth and flavoursome Pauillac red wine

The estate

In the land of Bages 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.

Constantly seeking excellence and innovation, Château Lynch-Bages carried out a new plot division in 2006, breaking down 90 original cadastal parcels into 180 to 200 sub-plots. The 2020 vintage was the first to be produced in the brand new infrastructures of Château Lynch-Bages. Designed by the architect Chien Chung (Didi) Pei, internationally renowned for his pure architectural style, this new vat room and its ageing cellar are state-of-the-art tools designed to magnify the terroir of this emblematic Pauillac property through a sterling vinification process.

The vineyard

Château Lynch-Bages 2016 is a Pauillac wine that stems from a 110-hectare vineyard, resting on Garonne gravel soils. 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

The coolness and heavy rainfall of April and May delayed flowering. The milder conditions recorded between 2 and 12 June allowed for an even flowering period. Following more rain, summer set in on 25 June. The summer was marked by heat and drought. The rainfall on 13 September provided the vines with the water they needed to boost and perfect the ripening of the grapes. The very good end-of-season enabled Château Lynch-Bages to carry out the harvest in a serene manner, giving rise to a very fine vintage.

Vinification and ageing

 The wine is aged in barrels, using 75% new oak.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (75%)

Merlot (19%)

Cabernet Franc (4%)

Petit Verdot (2%)

Chateau Lynch-Bages 2016: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The colour is a beautiful deep garnet.

Nose

The expressive nose reveals aromas of blackcurrant and morello cherry, with subtle notes of fresh mint.

Palate

On the palate, the attack is punchy and fresh, and the mid-palate is very smooth, with elegant, enfolding tannins.