Lynch Bages 2007

Tasted blind at the 2007 Bordeaux horizontal in Southwold. A strong showing from Lynch-Bages which is matching a couple of First Growths. The 2007 has an attractive nose: well defined with blackberry, strawberry and briary. There is good mineralité here with pencil lead and cedar showing through - very Pauillac, very fresh. The palate is demonstrating very good fruit concentration with saturated ripe tannins, good acidity and structure, over-achieving on the succulent finish. Excellent.

Delicious, supple and close to full maturity, the 2007 Lynch Bages exhibits a dark plum/purple color with some lightening at the edge along with tobacco leaf, bay leaf, black currant and earthy, loamy notes. Medium-bodied, supple and charming, it is best drunk over the next 7-8 years.

An underrated vintage that is delivering easy to drink signature Pauillac. Pencil lead, smoked cedar, sandalwood, concentrated mint leaf, cassis and bilberry, with finesse, balance and juice. A seductive, moreisih and beautifully balanced wine that is ready to enjoy, but will continue to deliver over the next decade. 70% new oak.

Deep purple-red, good depth of blackcurrant Cabernet fruit, finely expressed fruit on palate, discreet (for Lynch-Bages) yet all in a piece, good length, nicely ripe tannins, good balance. Drink 2012-20. 4 stars.