Powerful, rich, tannins that are chewy and physical in the mouth. Liquourice bud, turmeric root, cloves, rose stems, with tight blackcurrant and softer blackberry fruits. The muscular structure of the appellation and the concentration of Lynch Bages add a more serious side to the generosity of the 2009 vintage, and together they make something very special. This is begining to open up, with plenty more to give. 70% new oak.
98 points, Jane Anson (Apr 2022)
The medium to deep garnet colored 2009 Lynch Bages is boldly scented of crème de cassis, blackberry pie and baked plums with chocolate box, incense and underbrush suggestions plus a waft of bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, taut and well sustained in the mouth, it has a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone lifting the black fruit core to a nice long finish.
96 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (Mar 2019)
Tight and backward, this has dense, almost chewy layers of fig, currant and plum cake behind a very solid wall of cedar, roasted vanilla and charcoal notes. There's serious grip on the finish, with an iron edge that won't quit. Best from 2015 through 2035. 31,500 cases made.
96 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2012)
#93 - Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2012
A dense, immense, solidly powerful wine. The ripest fruit overflows, paralleling the dark, solid tannins. As so often, Lynch-Bages is a blockbuster, dark and concentrated, with immense aging potential.
96 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Feb 2012)
A powerful and ripe wine with a wide-screen personality, this makes a very bold statement without becoming a jot heavy. Serious tannins at the long finish suggest this has long-term aging potential. Drink now with a big steak or hold. (Horizontal Tasting, London, 2019)
96 points, James Suckling (Mar 2019)