Lynch-Bages Pauillac 2009

98 points Robert Parker: "Performing even better from bottle than it did from barrel, this appears to be the finest Lynch Bages since the 2000, 1990 and 1989. According to the chateau, the 2009 has the highest level of polyphenols ever measured as well as high alcohol (nearly 13.5%). A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest largely Merlot with touches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it is an expressive, voluptuously textured effort with unctuosity and powerful, juicy, succulent blackberry and black currant flavors, low acids, a layered, massive mouthfeel, but no sense of heaviness or fatigue. This exquisite Lynch Bages should drink well for 30+ years. (Feb 2012)"

98 points Jane Anson: "(79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot). Powerful, rich, tannins that are chewy and physical in the mouth. Liquourice bud, turmeric root, cloves, rose stems, with tight blackcurrant and softer blackberry fruits. The muscular structure of the appellation and the concentration of Lynch Bages add a more serious side to the generosity of the 2009 vintage, and together they make something very special. This is begining to open up, with plenty more to give. 70% new oak. Drink: 2024-2044. (3/11/22)"

98 points (19/20) La Revue du Vin de France: "It follows another major success, the 2009, with superb silkiness and opulent fruit, without any heaviness. (2014)"

97 points James Suckling: "Wow. Intense aromas of blackberries, currants and blueberries, follow through to a full body, with wonderful fruit and ultra-fine tannins. Fabulous Lynch. One of the top buys of the vintage. Best since 1989. I think that 2010 is probably better. Try in 2020. (2/14/12)"

96 points and 'Top 100 Wines of 2012 (#93),' Wine Spectator: "Tight and backward, this has dense, almost chewy layers of fig, currant and plum cake behind a very solid wall of cedar, roasted vanilla and charcoal notes. There's serious grip on the finish, with an iron edge that won't quit. Best from 2015 through 2035. (3/31/12)"

96 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "The Lynch Bages '09 is a triumph from Jean-Charles Chevalier and his team, putting in a superb performance under tough blind conditions (to the point where I speculated that it could be Mouton!) It has a wonderful controlled and precise on the understated nose - but there is a brooding presence here - the sense of a class act that does not want to be disturbed. Graphite, blackberry and crushed stone unfold with every passing moment. The palate is medium-bodied with a citrus fresh entry. There is very good weight here, primal but supremely well balanced with a gradual build towards the insistent minty finish. Gorgeous. (Jul 2013)"

96 points and 'Top 100 Cellar Selections 2012 (#55),' Wine Enthusiast: "[$195 list] A dense, immense, solidly powerful wine. The ripest fruit overflows, paralleling the dark, solid tannins. As so often, Lynch-Bages is a blockbuster, dark and concentrated, with immense aging potential. (Feb 2012)"

95 points Decanter: "This is a little more subdued than some right now, needing a good five minutes in the glass before revealing layers of rich olive, cassis, exotic spices, cracked pepper and garrigue. You get the heat of the vintage and the ripeness of the fruit, balanced by muscular, chewy tannins and gorgeous chocolate notes. This is great, although for me the 2010 just pips it. Drink: 2020-2040. (Feb 2019)"