The 2018 Lynch Bages is a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the prestigious Pauillac region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine showcases the expertise and craftsmanship of Lynch Bages, a renowned producer known for their exceptional quality. With a deep garnet-purple color, this wine is a visual delight, enticing you to explore its complex aromas and flavors.
On the nose, the 2018 Lynch Bages reveals captivating notes of blackberries, cloves, licorice, dried leaves, graphite, and black olives. These aromas create a symphony of scents that entice the senses. As you take your first sip, you'll experience a full-bodied wine with firm, tight tannins. The structure and tannins of this wine are beautifully balanced, showcasing a sense of austerity and refinement. The finish is long, mineral-driven, and layered, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling has awarded this wine an impressive score of 97 points, describing it as structured, tannic, and possessing beautiful austerity. He recommends enjoying this wine from 2026 onwards. Wine Enthusiast also gives it a score of 96 points, noting its richness, density, and restrained power. They suggest cellaring it until 2027 for optimal enjoyment.
Composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Lynch Bages showcases the classic Bordeaux blend. It was aged in 75% new barriques, adding depth and complexity to the wine. Lisa Perrotti-Brown of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate praises its expressive nose of blueberry compote, black cherry preserves, and blackcurrant pastilles. She describes the medium to full-bodied palate as impactful, juicy, and spicy, with firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness.
This wine has received high praise from various critics, including Decanter, Jeb Dunnuck, Vinous, Wine Spectator, and Jane Anson. Each reviewer highlights the wine's exceptional qualities, such as its powerful texture, concentration of ripe fruits, and impressive aging potential. With its impeccable balance, purity of fruit, and remarkable complexity, the 2018 Lynch Bages is undoubtedly one of the finest vintages produced by this esteemed producer. This wine promises to age gracefully for decades, rewarding those who have the patience to wait.