Château Lynch Moussas 2009

A classic name, with Irish roots and generally associated with fast cars and exquisitely beautiful French châteaux, with an undulating, charming character… OK enough about Pierce Brosnan (though he is lovely); we’re here to talk about Château Lynch Moussas. Originally owned by an Irishman by the name of Lynch, this Cru Classé chateau has produced a gorgeously soft, ripe, yet well-structured and firm offering… oh dear we’ve reverted back to Pierce. Oh, Pierce.

The Lynch Moussas estate has been situated on Bordeaux's Left Bank, in Paulliac, since the 18th century. Originally the estate was owned by Irishman John Lynch. The estate was then split into two, Lynch Moussas and Lynch Bages. Lynch Moussas consisted of the building, most of the land and the vineyards. The estate was classified as a Classed Growth according to the 1855 classification. In the 1919 Century Lynch Moussas was acquired by the Castejas family, owners of Château Duhart-Milon.

Paulliac is home to three of the Premier Cru Châteaux. The soil is predominantly gravel-based, which is perfect for making structured, textural wines. Like in most of Bordeaux's Left Bank wines, Cabernet Sauvignon is the leading grape in Châteaux Lynch Moussas 2009.

The grapes are manually harvested and taken to the modern vat rooms to be sorted through by hand. The harvest takes place early – in August – thus preserving the acidity, colour and tannins in the grapes. Only the best berries are chosen to go into the wine. The vineyard adheres to be environmentally-friendly and uses minimal products on the vines. The wine ferments for 15 to 20 days and is then matured in 50% new oak barrels for 14 to 18 months.

Château Moussas 2009 is a deep, dark red with ripe cherry on the nose. On the palate the blackcurrant characteristic of the Cabernet Sauvignin really shines. It is full with structured, fresh tannins.