2000 Lynch Bages
Buying options
Tasting notes
This was a gorgeous showing by the 2000 Château Lynch-Bages, and this appears to be smack in the middle of its prime drinking window based on this bottle (which was more youthful than a bottle from my cellar). Still ruby/plum-hued, it has a pure, intense nose of darker currants, leafy tobacco, freshly sharpened pencils, and incense, which is classic Pauillac goodness. This carries to a full-bodied Lynch-Bages that has flawless overall balance, a seamless, surprisingly elegant mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and a great finish. This was closed and hard to read a few years after release and over the following decade or more, but the last few bottles I've had have all showed remarkably open and accessible. I'd be shocked if it didn't continue drinking brilliantly over the coming 20+ years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Aged for 15 months in oak barrels (70% new). Red hue with a touch of brick at the rim. Appealing nose with complexity and some evolution. Nutty, herbal notes with a cassis and dark-fruit undertow. Freshness on the palate but with sweetness and generosity of fruit. Refined tannins with length and poise on the finish. (JL)
Deep ruby, softening in colour around the rim, packed with pencil lead, cigar box, slate, mint leaf, chewy tannins, great quality with an innate confidence. Has walls to scale, and a ton of life ahead, an exceptionally enjoyable 2000 vintage that remains young. 70% new oak.
About the producer
Ch. Lynch-Bages is one of the largest and best properties in Pauillac, in the Médoc. While officially classified as a Fifth Growth estate, it regularly competes with the First and Second Growths when it comes to quality and ageability.