Chateau Lynch-Bages 2005

The richness and smoothness of a fine Pauillac wine

The estate

Situated at the entrance of Pauillac, Chateau Lynch Bages is an estate that has left its mark on the history of the Medoc wine region. Although the terroir of Bages has been known since the 16th century, it wasn’t until the 18th century that it gained its recognition. With the son of an Irish citizen named Thomas Lynch at the helm, the Bages wine was recognized at the Universal Exhibition in Paris. Chateau Lynch-Bages became part of the J-M Cazes family on the eve of the Second World War.

The vineyard

A benchmark among fine Pauillac wines, Chateau Lynch-Bages watches over a 90-hectare vineyard that is planted on the appellation’s typical Garonne gravel soil.

The vintage

Warm, sunny and dry, 2005 is a vintage marked by a homogeneous vegetative cycle. The particularly dry conditions caused water stress which limited production while enhancing the quality of the ripening. The Merlot grapes were harvested on September 21st and 22nd, but the Cabernet and Petit Verdot grapes were harvested after a 10-day break on October 3rd. The harvest ended on October 10th. Despite lower yields, the harvested grapes showcase a high quality.

Vinification and aging

The hand-picked grapes are first sorted in the vineyard. Aged for 15 months in oak barrels (80% new wood).

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (72%)

Merlot (15%)

Cabernet Franc (12%)

Petit Verdot (1%).

Chateau Lynch-Bages 2005: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

This vintage offers a seductive aromatic expression, tannic structure along with a persistent and delicious finish.