Echo de Lynch Bages 2014, Pauillac

Description

Echo de Lynch-Bages displays the characteristic taste, aromas and length of Pauillac wines. As an echo of the first wine, it receives the same care and attention from the vine to the cellars. It is the result of a selection of Lynch-Bages’ youngest vines and specific plots which represent between 25 to 40 % of the harvest depending on the vintage. Echo de Lynch-Bages is round, soft and seductive in its youth with outstanding potential for bottle age.

The key to the success of the 2014 vintage was the hot dry weather during September and October, with lovely sunny days and cooler nights. Nevertheless, one shouldn’t forget that relatively cool, dry summer in Pauillac (rainfall below 30mm), which prompted the development of remarkable acidity.

After five weeks of summery weather, harvesting began on 24 September with the Merlot plants over two consecutive days, followed by the old Merlots along with the young Cabernet Sauvignon.

Following this initial phase, we decided on a break of 3 or 4 days to make the most of the exceptional weather to fine-tune the ripeness of the old Cabernets. Harvesting was then restarted on Monday 6 October, with only 3 teams this year, that is 180 harvesters to allow them time to pick with precision. Harvesting finished on 11 October after 12 days instead of the 13 initially envisaged.

During harvest, all the indicators of a great wine were present: Generous sugar levels enveloping abundant tannins, an intense colour and all nicely balanced by a lovely acidity.

The 2014 vintage can be summed up as follows: vivid colour, a tannic structure that is firm yet subtle and red-fruit aromas. A supple yet powerful wine reminiscent of a blend similar to that of the Grand Vin.

Appellation: Pauillac

Owner: Jean-Michel CAZES

Ageing: French oak barrels during 12 months, in barrels used for one previous vintage.

Production: 27% of the harvest

Source: https://www.jmcazes.com/en/chateau-lynch-bages/echo