Château Lynch Bages, 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac,

Jean-Charles Cazes became the tenant at Lynch Bages in 1934, later purchasing the estate and starting a program of investment, restoring the Chateau and undertaking much work in the vineyards. The estate has since prospered, becoming recognised globally, but being particularly popular in the UK market. The estate is now run by Jean-Charles’ great grandson, Jean-Charles.

There are three principle plots, one between the village of Bages and the outskirts of Pauillac, one to the west of Bages towards Grand Puy Lacoste, and the final plot lies at the south of the commune close to St Julien. In all there are approximately 100 hectares under vine on classic Gunzian gravel over marl, chalk and sand. The vineyards are planted with 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. Recent vintages have seen the estate returning to its very best form, not that they have ever really suffered any loss of form. This 5th growth estate has always been an over-performer, but recent efforts would suggest that the wines are on a par with the ‘Super Seconds’.

It is also worth mentioning their excellent second wine, Echo de Lynch Bages. This was previously called Haut Bages Averous. Since the 2008 vintage, Echo along with the excellent Ormes des Pez offers drinkers the Lynch Bages style at a fraction of the cost.