Wine Review: Haut-Bages Averous 2004

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The wine is deep ruby with a bit of bricking at the edge, showing it is fully mature. It smells of cedar, blackcurrant, dried tobacco, and leather- quite tertiary though to start with. With 13% ABV, it feels medium-bodied, and the tannins are smooth. Cassis, mineral, dried herbs, and oak lured in. The acidity keeps it fresh, but the fruit fades after a second sniff. The finish is moderate, highlighting savoury, mature notes. This wine is at its peak now and should be enjoyed soon, ideally within the next year or two, as its fruit and structure are starting to fade; there is a certain greenness in the last sips of the last glasses. If you want, pair with simple dishes like roast goose or Peking duck. There are slight sediments. No decanting or breathing is suggested.

This wine shows the aged character and classic mature complexity you expect from Pauillac. The tannins are well integrated, making it ready to drink now. It’s a good way to get to know the style of Château Lynch Bages' main wine. The price is appealing for a mature Bordeaux.

The 2004 vintage was ranked good, but, in my view, average. So, this wine lacks the power and depth of the best years. As the second wine from Lynch Bages, it does not have the same structure, ageing potential, or reputation as the main wine, which is just normal. The fruit is fading, and while some primary fruit flavours remain, they are less noticeable. On the palate, it can feel a bit thin or short, with about five seconds of fruit flavour, especially when compared to better vintages or the main wine. The price is fair for a mature Bordeaux of this type, but you might find other wines of similar quality at similar prices.

Price Comparison (HK$). Wine-Searcher Range: ~HK$300–$400 (varies by condition, retailer, and shipping). Your Offer Price of $330 is a great value; it does not aim to match the lowest price but reflects excellence through neck levels and Storage.

Critics give this wine scores in the mid-80s: Wine Spectator 87, Robert Parker/Wine Advocate 86, and Jancis Robinson 15.5/20. In my view, scores for second wines like this one have got to be understood from the context of the First Wine. The critics, surely, have their own reviewing systems, and they cannot rank a second wine higher than a first. What if a CB has the same score as a second wine like this one? That has to be understood in light of other substantial knowledge about the wines, as well. I scored it 90 points.

 It was aged for 12 to 14 months in 50% new French oak, just like Lynch Bages the main wine. The oak is noticeable but balanced, adding spice, cedar, and structure to support the wine’s character.

To conclude, Haut-Bages Averous 2004 gives you mature Pauillac flavours at a reasonable price. As a second wine from an average year, it is a good choice for those who want classic, aged Bordeaux, but it does not have the depth or excitement of the estate’s best wines or top vintages.

WhatsApp us at 66236746 or connect through cf.lau@dunndunn.hk if you are interested in this wine.