Lynch Vineyards

Dan Lynch is one of the characters of the Napa Valley and this wine of his is full of character. Right now, it’s very young with hints of milk chocolate and sweet malted milk flavors from the oak. But I’m reasonably sure that will integrate with time.

In the meanwhile, it’s very dark in color and is soft on the palate with warm black fruit flavors. The wine is unctuous and elegant, with a satin-like body with loads of that heretofore mentioned sweet dark fruit and chocolate. However, there’s an underlayment of gritty tannins to ensure some of that character and a bit of longevity. Hold on to it for a year or so and then drink it over the next eight years.

The grapes come from the estate’s Lynch Knoll vineyard on lower Spring Mountain. It is the fourth vintage from this parcel; and it was made by longtime Napa Valley winemaker Gary Galleron. The varietal composition is 94.95 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.8 Merlot, 0.2 Syrah. The listed alcohol percentage is a welcomed 13.9 percent. The suggested retail price is $60. There were only 142 cases made.

Reviewed January 9, 2006 by Alan Goldfarb.