1982 Lynch-Bages, Pauillac

“This shows intense aromas of mint, lead pencil and currants that follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a finish with tension and freshness.” (12/2012)

“I tasted the 1982 Lynch-Bages twice within a month, both at a private dinner in London and at the château, from bottle and double-magnum on separate occasions. Both vindicate an exceptionally fine 1982, perhaps a bit overlooked in a vintage full of stars. Curiously, the bottle in Bordeaux does not fully deliver the mesmerizing freshness and energy compared to the bottle in London: pencil-lead-tinged black fruit intermixed with clove and freshly-rolled tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins, perhaps just a little austere compared to its peers. Yet, indeed, the bottle in London exudes class and composure with a detailed, mineral-driven vintage belying that year's unseasonably warm period. Superb. (NM)” (07/2023)

“My last bottle of the 1982 Lynch-Bages continues to drink very well indeed, exhibiting rich aromas of crème de cassis, blackberries, licorice, sweet loamy soil and cigar wrapper. Full-bodied, broad and unctuous, it's fleshy and textural, with sweet, ripe tannins, low acidity and a long, expansive finish. It's fully mature, but it hasn't evolved much over the last decade; so, there appears to be no danger of imminent decline. (WK)” (12/2022)

“This vintage was a modern benchmark for the estate. Intense aromas and flavors of berry, currant, mint and light toasty oak. Full, round and refined, with a long, long finish. Gorgeous. Drinking beautifully. (JS)” (11/2007)

“A smoky nose filled with liquorice, baked cherries and smoked bacon which continues somewhat on the palate - quite a savoury element to the taste profile. Tannins are really impressive, finely textured but filling, giving this a lovely weight on the palate. Gorgeous salty minerality gives the crushed stone aspect in the glass with red and black fruits. A full, powerful, persistent wine that still feels quite charged, this has power and lift with sharp, almost high toned acidity that gives this a lot of tang on the finish. (GH)” (05/2023)

“A beautiful wine that was minty fresh, fragrant, sweet and gorgeous. I ended up writing 'gorgeous' twice and 'beautiful' once, I see from my handwritten notes. 19/20 points (JR)” (03/2015)