1997 Lynch Bages
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 1997 Lynch-Bages shows some degradation on the bricked rim. The bouquet is open-knit, fully mature with ferrous, undergrowth, leafy/autumnal scents. It's missing some fruit intensity, as you expect from a more challenging season. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, crisp black fruit laced with orange rind, black pepper, cedar and tobacco. This shows the most cohesion towards the finish and displays a long, sustained aftertaste. This is a real turn-up for the books. Tasted blind at the Lynch Bages vertical at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
This wine is jammy black currant fruit intermixed with cedar wood, herbs, spice, and pepper. It is a light-styled yet friendly effort with creamy new oak, low acidity, and a medium-bodied, attractive albeit superficial appeal. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.
Pretty plum and raspberry aromas in this young Lynch. Medium- to light-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Drink now through 2004. James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2000
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.