Lynch Bages 2001

The first bottle of this was denuded of vitality and out of sorts (indeed this is a major problem with this vintage.) Not corked, but previous experience told me that it was not “happy” bottle. Fortunately I stayed for another to be opened and this far more representative. Ripe, dark berried fruits on the nose with touches of mulberry, briary, graphite and sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp entry, tarry black fruits on the entry, sharp acidity, very tight but that is probably because this bottle had just been opened. Very fine.

The fully mature 2001 exhibits aromas of tapenade, bay leaf, licorice, red and black currants, damp earth and new saddle leather. Medium-bodied and atypically elegant and charming for a Lynch Bages with soft, fully resolved tannin and a moderately long finish, it is much lighter than a great vintage such as 2000.

Made in an elegant, approachable style without the blockbuster depth and meat found in the finest vintages (2000 and 1996), this is a dark plum/garnet/ruby-colored, seductive, evolved, delicious 2001. Aromas of black olives, cedar, cassis, damp earth, and licorice, medium to full body, soft tannin, and an easy-going personality suggest consumption over the next 12-14 years is warranted.

Showing far better after 13-14 months in cask than it did early in its life, this wine has fleshed out, put on weight, and shows the typically full-bodied, corpulent, earthy, leathery, black currant style that has made Lynch-Bages so popular with consumers. The wine is lush, pure, and just a lot of fun to drink. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2017. P.S. Think of it as a slightly beefier version of the charming, elegant yet flavorful 1999.

A dark ruby/purple color is followed by a fresh, pure, light Pauillac with a short middle, and a cool climate taste, texture, and style. Barrel aging will result in additional texture and flesh, but this looks to be a medium-weight Lynch Bages to drink during its first 12-15 years of life.

Mid crimson. Quite warm and aromatic. Readable and lively. Fresh and very 2001 rather than very Pauillac. Relatively light for a Pauillac but certainly pleasant.