2009 Lynch Bages
By Chateau Lynch Bages
2009 Lynch Bages from Chateau Lynch Bages, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The formidable 2009 vintage from Pauillac stands prominently among the pantheon of recent Bordeaux triumphs. Drawing from the venerable terroirs of Chateau Lynch Bages, this release has cemented itself as a linchpin for connoisseurs and investors alike—an exemplar of viticultural finesse amidst a year that showered the region with ideal conditions.
Structured Elegance: A Confluence of Nature and Nurture
The 2009 Lynch Bages from Chateau Lynch Bages bears witness to the harmonious encounter of a benevolent climate and expert winemaking. The growing season saw a succession of warm days offset by cooler nights, leading to a paced maturation that nurtured a complexity of flavours while preserving the quintessential Pauillac backbone—firm tannins and vigorous structure.
In the glass, the '09 displays an opulent array of cassis, black cherry, and subtle spice notes that marry beautifully with hints of graphite and tobacco. Its aromatic intensity is matched by a palate that expresses depth without foregoing purity, reflecting a tapestry woven with well-executed precision. Decanting unfurls layers of dark fruit alongside nuances of oak and earthy undertones—evidence of adept ageing potential.
An Investment in Liquid Legacy
For aficionados casting an eye towards wine investment, the 2009 Lynch Bages emerges as an outstanding candidate. Acknowledging its exceptional balance and longevity, one might foresee appreciable maturation over the next decades. This Pauillac jewel represents not just a pinnacle for Chateau Lynch Bages, but a bastion of stability in any sophisticated portfolio.
A vintage such as this from Chateau Lynch Bages is poised to continue its dance through time with grace and vigour. Its pedigree and performance commend it as one to secure; to revel now for its vivacious youth or to nestle in the cellar, where it can embark on an elegant evolution. In whichever capacity you engage with this sterling vintage, rest assured it punctuates any collection with pronounced distinction.
Current market price
£1,450.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
80.56
Scores and tasting notes
Performing even better from bottle than it did from barrel, this appears to be the finest Lynch Bages since the 2000, 1990 and 1989. According to the chateau, the 2009 has the highest level of polyphenols ever measured as well as high alcohol (nearly 13.5%). A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest largely Merlot with touches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it is an expressive, voluptuously textured effort with unctuosity and powerful, juicy, succulent blackberry and black currant flavors, low acids, a layered, massive mouthfeel, but no sense of heaviness or fatigue. This exquisite Lynch Bages should drink well for 30+ years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #199 February 2012
Wow. Intense aromas of blackberries, currants and blueberries, follow through to a full body, with wonderful fruit and ultra-fine tannins. Fabulous Lynch. One of the top buys of the vintage. Best since 1989. I think that 2010 is probably better. Try in 2020.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 14th 2012
The medium to deep garnet colored 2009 Lynch Bages is boldly scented of crème de cassis, blackberry pie and baked plums with chocolate box, incense and underbrush suggestions plus a waft of bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, taut and well sustained in the mouth, it has a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone lifting the black fruit core to a nice long finish.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 14 March 2019
Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. The Lynch Bages '09 is a triumph from Jean-Charles Chevalier and his team, putting in a superb performance under tough blind conditions (to the point where I speculated that it could be Mouton!) It has a wonderful controlled and precise on the understated nose - but there is a brooding presence here - the sense of a class act that does not want to be disturbed. Graphite, blackberry and crushed stone unfold with every passing moment. The palate is medium-bodied with a citrus fresh entry. There is very good weight here, primal but supremely well balanced with a gradual build towards the insistent minty finish. Gorgeous. Tasted January 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013