Wines Pauillac Château Lynch-Bages - 1997

Château Lynch-Bages 1997 is a Grand Cru from the esteemed Pauillac appellation in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. This vintage red wine typically exemplifies the character for which Pauillac is renowned: robust yet refined, with structure and depth. While varietal composition can vary from year to year, the classic style of Lynch-Bages often revolves around a blend that may include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller proportions of other Bordeaux varieties. The 1997 vintage was marked by a challenging growing season, resulting in wines that tend to offer elegance and accessibility rather than sheer power. Vinification at Lynch-Bages is traditional, with careful extraction and maturation in French oak barrels contributing notes of cedar, tobacco, and spice. With over two decades of bottle age, this wine can be expected to display tertiary aromas such as forest floor, leather, and dried fruit alongside remnants of blackcurrant and plum.

Pauillac, nestled on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, benefits greatly from its gravel soils, which provide excellent drainage and encourage deep vine rooting. The temperate maritime climate of Bordeaux ensures relatively mild winters and warm summers, moderated by the nearby Atlantic Ocean. This terroir is particularly favourable for producing structured, age-worthy wines. Pauillac’s celebrated history as a wine region, alongside its distinguished châteaux, gives its wines a special place in the world of fine wine.

For food pairings, Château Lynch-Bages 1997 would shine with classic dishes such as roast lamb studded with garlic and rosemary, a traditional Pauillac favourite, or well-aged cuts of beef. Earthy mushrooms, truffle-infused dishes, and mature hard cheeses such as Comté or aged cheddar also complement the evolved complexity of an older Pauillac.

To fully appreciate this mature red, decant delicately to separate it from any sediment and serve at around 17-18°C. This will allow the wine’s bouquet and subtlety to express themselves beautifully.