Wines Pauillac Château Lynch-Bages - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Château Lynch-Bages 2021 is a classic Pauillac from the heart of Bordeaux’s prestigious Médoc region. This Grand Cru Classé is typically crafted from a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, and sometimes small proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, even if the precise blend for the 2021 vintage has not been specified. The 2021 vintage, marked by cooler temperatures and some climatic challenges, tends to favour finesse, freshness, and aromatic precision. Vinification at Lynch-Bages is traditionally meticulous, with hand-harvesting and rigorous selection followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel or concrete vats and ageing in a high proportion of new French oak barrels. The resulting wine is structured, vibrant, and poised, with aromas of cassis, blackberry, cedar, tobacco leaf, and graphite, unfolding on a palate that marries classic Pauillac power with graceful, mineral-driven elegance.

The Pauillac appellation, within the Médoc, is renowned worldwide as the cradle of legendary Bordeaux estates. The region benefits from gravelly soils over a limestone base, which provide excellent drainage and promote deep root growth – perfect conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. The Atlantic-influenced climate ensures balanced ripening, with enough warmth to enable full maturation of the grapes and enough rain and cooling breezes to retain freshness. Pauillac’s terroir, history, and the influence of the Gironde estuary contribute to wines of exceptional ageing potential and complexity, consistently expressing a unique tension between power and refinement.

When it comes to food pairings, Château Lynch-Bages 2021 will shine alongside classic dishes such as roast leg of lamb with garlic and rosemary, entrecôte à la bordelaise, or a fine beef Wellington. Its firm tannic backbone and vibrant acidity make it an excellent companion to game birds, grilled duck breast, or even richly flavoured vegetarian dishes like wild mushroom gratin or lentil stew with smoked paprika. For a true regional match, consider a serving of Pauillac lamb or an assortment of aged Comté or Ossau-Iraty cheeses.

To enjoy this wine at its best, serve at 16-18°C after allowing it to decant for at least an hour. This will help soften the youthful tannins and allow the nuanced aromatics to evolve. While already displaying its Médoc origins, this vintage will gain complexity with cellaring, so you may also consider laying down a few bottles for 8-15 years for a more complete tasting experience.