The 2016 Lynch Moussas is a blend of 17% Merlot an 83% Cabernet Sauvignon cropped at 48 hectoliters per hectare between 3 and 19 October. Matured in 60% new oak and the remainder one year old, this has a concentrated bouquet that offers tobacco-infused black fruit, briary and then with aeration, veins of pencil lead. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin cloaked in plenty of black fruit, quite spicy for Lynch Moussas with a touch of orange rind developing towards the finish. I appreciate the salinity on the aftertaste here. This is excellent and may well surpass the impressive 2015 last year.

Barrel Sample. This is one of those estates showing a new era of quality. The wine has power while keeping everything in balance. Acidity and black currant fruit are just as important as the structure. Drink after 2026.

This is alluring, with a coating of warm vanilla bean over a core of gently steeped plum and blackberry fruit. Shows a light woodsy streak through the finish. Not as vivacious as the top wines, but solid. (Barrel Tasting)