Lynch Bages 1995

A dense ruby/purple hue is accompanied by reticent, restrained aromatics suggesting earth, herbs and subtle fruit. The wine hits the palate with a brutal, tannic overlay, but behind that are impressive levels of black and red fruits. As is the case with many 1995s, the wine's structural components still dominate, which makes one wonder if these cuvees will ever shed enough tannin to be charming and enjoyable to drink. Certainly depth, weight and richness are all present, but the tannins remain elevated and somewhat foreboding.

The 1995 Lynch-Bages has a well-defined bouquet with intense blackberry, undergrowth and tobacco scents. Bold and lifted, this is a nose that wants to make an impression. The palate has more concentration and tannic backbone than others in this era. Dark berry fruit mixes with cola and black pepper, and tobacco comes through toward the finish with an austere, grippy finish. This would benefit from decanting for a couple of hours and is a bit of a bruiser, though not without charm. Tasted blind at the Lynch Bages vertical at the château.

Classic dry claret nose. Very dry finish. Remarkably youthtful crimson with a pale rim. In the glass it opened out to real richness but it definitely needs decanting to show its best. A very solid concentrated wine that mellowed in the glass but still has quite a life ahead.

This is a beautiful wine with an evolved personality and low acidity. The wine exhibits abundant quantities of earthy, smoke and tobacco-tinged, black currant fruit, rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied flavors, and moderate tannin in the long finish. It is successful, but nowhere near full maturity. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.