Introduction:
The 2016 Château Lynch-Moussas from Pauillac is a classic Left Bank Bordeaux, showcasing the power, structure, and refinement of this prestigious appellation. With its deep concentration, firm tannins, and layers of dark fruit, cedar, and graphite, this wine embodies the elegance and aging potential of the exceptional 2016 vintage.
Terrior:
Situated in Pauillac, one of Bordeaux’s most esteemed appellations, Château Lynch-Moussas benefits from well-drained gravel soils, which provide excellent conditions for cabernet sauvignon. The temperate maritime climate, influenced by the Gironde estuary, ensures slow ripening, leading to optimal balance between fruit, acidity, and tannin.
Appearance:
Deep ruby with garnet edges, reflecting both concentration and early signs of development.
Nose:
Expressive and layered, featuring aromas of cassis, blackberry, and ripe plum, intertwined with classic Pauillac notes of cedar, tobacco, graphite, and pencil shavings. Hints of vanilla and baking spice from oak aging add depth.
Palate:
Full-bodied with a structured, refined mouthfeel. Bold dark fruit flavors of blackcurrant and black cherry are complemented by earthy undertones, tobacco leaf, and a touch of espresso. The tannins are firm yet polished, and the fresh acidity ensures balance and long-term aging potential.
Finish:
Long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, minerality, and a touch of toasted oak spice.
Overall Impression:
A well-crafted, age-worthy Pauillac that combines power and elegance. While approachable now with decanting, this wine will continue to evolve and gain complexity over the next 15–20 years. Ideal for pairing with roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, or aged cheeses.
Press:
94 points, Decanter:
"The 2016 continues a run of great vintages at Lynch-Moussas - they're making some of their best wines at the moment. Cedar and bilberry sweetness is on display, mouth-filling and juicy, and a little less austere than some. This has really great balance and a sense of generosity - powerful but not overpowering. There's lovely persistence, with drops of minerality, crushed tobacco, and a mouthwatering finish."
93 points, Wine Advocate:
"The 2016 Lynch Moussas is a blend of 17% merlot and 83% cabernet sauvignon cropped at 48 hectoliters per hectare between 3 and 19 October. Matured in 60% new oak and the remainder one-year-old, this has a concentrated bouquet that offers tobacco-infused black fruit, briary, and then with aeration, veins of pencil lead. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins cloaked in plenty of black fruit, quite spicy for Lynch Moussas, with a touch of orange rind developing towards the finish. I appreciate the salinity on the aftertaste here. This is excellent and may well surpass the impressive 2015."
93 points, James Suckling:
"Aromas of currants, mushrooms, and dried fruit. Full body, round and lightly chewy tannins, and a long, fresh finish. Nice, earthy complexity at the end. Needs two to three years to soften. Better after 2022."
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Château Lynch-Moussas
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Bordeaux (Pauillac AOC)
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot
Vintage: 2016
Wine Style: Full-bodied, Structured, Age-Worthy Red Wine
Winemaking Techniques: Traditional Bordeaux Vinification, Aged in French Oak (50% New Oak)
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork