2005 Ch. Haut Bages Averous, Pauillac

Few people realise that this is the second wine of Ch. Lynch-Bages, and it certainly doesn't taste like it here! Gentle cedar hints enhance the rich summer pudding flavours while roasted coffee and firm tannins and acidity add a serious edge. The pure yet beguiling nose of spicy raspberries tops things off beautifully. You can argue about how good the Grand Vin is till the cows come home but there is no doubt that this wonderful wine is the best Haut-Bages Averous ever.

The second wine of Ch Lynch Bages is very attractive at this early stage - very ripe and full and extraordinarily opulent on the nose. Spicy, almost brûlée then good freshness and broad palate spread. Neat, dry tannins on the finish. Very lively and bracing - a real palate scrub.
(Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com - 12-Apr-06)
Jancis Robinson

Shows currant, mineral and spice on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and fresh fruit followed by a delicate finish. The second wine of Lynch-Bages. Best after 2009. 10,000 cases made.
(James Suckling - Wine Spectator - 31-Mar-08)