The 1998 Lynch-Bages shows less aging, and the fruit here is darker and more compact than others in this era: blackberry, wild hedgerow, cedar and a touch of wild mint. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannins, blackberry, briary, iron rust and an underlying bitterness that just dries out the finish a little. This is quite a serious Lynch Bages, and I would drink this in the near future. Tasted blind at the Lynch Bages vertical at the château. -- Neal Martin

This austere medium-weight Lynch Bages reveals notes of new saddle leather tobacco olives and black fruits. Although not a big concentrated Pauillac it is graceful elegant with character and style. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2016.