Wines Pauillac Lynch-Bages - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Château Lynch-Bages 2016 is a quintessential Pauillac from the heart of the Médoc, a blend known for its power, depth and remarkable structure. While the precise blend is not listed, typical Lynch-Bages vintages are composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2016 vintage benefited from a warm summer and a remarkably even, dry ripening period, resulting in outstanding fruit concentration and beautifully ripe, yet refined, tannins. Vinification at Lynch-Bages combines traditional methods with modern precision, using stainless steel and oak vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels, of which a significant proportion are new, imparting complexity and subtle oak influence to the wine.

Pauillac, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is renowned for its deeply gravelly soils, which offer excellent drainage and encourage profound root systems for the vines. This terroir consistently produces some of the world’s most respected Cabernet-based wines, noted for their longevity and structure. The maritime climate, tempered by the proximity to the estuary, allows for a long growing season and optimal ripeness. Pauillac’s rich history is woven into the fabric of Bordeaux’s acclaim, boasting several classified growths whose names are synonymous with quality and prestige.

For food pairings, the robust yet finely detailed profile of Lynch-Bages 2016 calls for equally flavoursome dishes. Classic pairings from the French repertoire include roast lamb with rosemary, rib of beef with sautéed mushrooms, or a duck breast with blackcurrant sauce. Regional cuisine such as entrecôte à la bordelaise (grilled rib-eye with red wine and shallot sauce) suits the wine’s structure beautifully, as do aged hard cheeses like Comté or mature cheddar.

For optimal enjoyment, decant for at least two hours before serving to allow the bouquet and flavour profile to fully express themselves. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This vintage is still youthful but will gracefully evolve over the next decade or more, rewarding those who appreciate Pauillac’s trademark balance of power and finesse.