2005 Lynch-Bages, Pauillac

The owner of Lynch Bages in 1855 was André-Louis Jurine, son of Swiss wine merchant Sébastien Jurine who bought the property in 1824, and it is this name that you find on the 1855 listing, without the term Château (it would have regularly been called simply Lynch-Bages or Cru de Lynch at the time). Today seen as one of the 5th Growths that has far outgrown its original rank, this 2005 shows just how well Lynch Bages can age, just stirring into full life at 20 years old. The tight fruits from a few years ago are finally starting to soften, and this is showing gorgeous black cherry and cassis fruits, tobacco and cigar box edging, still muscular but now letting the mint leaf and fresh acidities fill the palate. 80% new oak, Daniel LLose winemaker. This was the last year that Jean-Michel Cazes was in charge before handing over to his son Jean-Charles.

A meaty and decadent Lynch with very ripe currant aromas on the nose. Full body, velvety-textured tannins and a powerful finish. It shows so much structure and fruit yet remains polished and focused.