Lynch Bages

(a blend of 76% cabernet sauvignon, 18% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot; 13.4% alcohol; pH 3.64; 93 IPT) Inky purple. Sexy, forward aromas of red cherry, cassis, minerals and violet; very Pauillac. Then rich and lush, with impressive volume to its ripe, creamy strawberry, cedar and chocolate flavors. As full and sweet as this is, it can seem almost chunky at first, but thanks to harmonious acids, which nicely extend the flavors on the back, it does not leave any impression of excess weight. In fact, this finishes rather easygoing, even though serious tannins are present to provide adequate backbone and aging potential. A classic example of an '09 Bordeaux that will be ready to drink far sooner than usual but should also hold up well for another 20 years after that.