Château Lynch Bages Pauillac 1855 5ième Cru 2012

Inky ruby in colour, muscular tannins with tons of dark fruit. The oak integration on the palate is next to perfection: vanilla, cloves, charred wood, toast that becomes even more dominant through the plate. Mint. Acidity is slightly restrained by grippy tannins, but the freshness comes though in a mint leaf finish, tapering to softer fruit and oak spices. 65% new oak, Jean-Charles Cazes owner, Harvest October 12-18.