Located across the street from the picturesque village of St. Emilion, the well managed Bordeaux chateau hit two home runs in a row with their 2009 and 2010 wines. Due to better sensations of freshness, I have a slight preference for the 2010,. But both vintages merit tasting.
Bordeaux deserves attention for the numerous over performing small properties that produce outstanding value Bordeaux wines. These delicious wines can be enjoyed young and they will stand up to some ageing as well.
While different in style, 2009 Lynch Bages and 2010 Lynch Bages are the first back to back successes for the Pauillac, Bordeaux wine producer since the exalted duo of 1989 and 1990.
The two most recent Chateau d’Issan vintages are both outstanding. While 2010 d’Issan is probably a slightly better, more complete Bordeaux wine, a strong case can be made for the more opulent, voluptuous style of the 2009.
Picking fruit with higher degrees of ripeness is one the key reasons for the improvements. Technical advancements have also helped. Starting with the 2010 vintage, the estate began employing the Air Tec Wine system, Viniclean and the Vistalys optical sorting machine.
Borie reduced prices for his 2010 release which was priced at 16% less than the 2009 at 150 Euros. While still expensive, that level of discount helped spark sales for their stunning wine.
Patrick Maroteaux, the chateau owner said, “One big difference between 2010 and previous vintages is their new method of handling the press wine. Press wine is now aged in one year old barrels. The estate is also utilizing more selection in the press wine.”