About Château Lynch-Bages
The estate takes its name from Thomas Lynch, an Irishman whose family settled in Bordeaux in the eighteenth century, and from the Bages plateau just south of Pauillac village where the vines sit. It was classified a fifth growth in 1855 and has outrun that ranking for as long as anyone can remember, which is why it has often been called the poor man's Mouton. The Cazes family bought it in 1939 and Jean-Michel Cazes built its modern reputation from the 1970s, with his son Jean-Charles now leading. The blend is Cabernet-dominated and the style is rich and openly fruited rather than austere. Echo de Lynch-Bages is the second wine and a small amount of white is made as Blanc de Lynch-Bages.
Pauillac produces the most structured Cabernet in Bordeaux. Our Pauillac Wines and Bordeaux Wines pages cover the neighboring châteaux, and Cabernet Sauvignon follows the grape further afield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lynch-Bages only a fifth growth?
Because the 1855 ranking was based on prices in the middle of the nineteenth century and has never been revised for the Médoc. Quality at Lynch-Bages rose sharply under the Cazes family in the twentieth century, and its price today sits well above its classification.
What is Blanc de Lynch-Bages?
The estate's dry white, made from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle. Since Pauillac has no white appellation it is sold as Bordeaux Blanc, and it is produced in small quantity.
Who owns Lynch-Bages?
The Cazes family, since 1939. Jean-Charles Cazes runs it now, and the family opened a new winery designed by Chien Chung in 2020.
How long does Lynch-Bages age?
Ten to fifteen years for good vintages, holding for thirty. It is more approachable young than most Pauillac, which is part of why it sells so well, but it gains from a decade.