When sharing a bottle on a special occasion, Vladimir Restoin-Roitfeld prefers Bordeaux and especially the wine made by hand at Château Lynch-Bages. This family-owned vineyard located in Pauillac, France, has a fascinating history. The name "Lynch" on the label comes from a young Irishman from Galway that was chased out of his country in 1691 and later married into this property. The luck of the Irish, as they say. In 1824 the vineyard was sold to a wine merchant from Venice. The Cazes family, known for their winemaking, bought the property in 1934. This vineyard is rare in that it has always been owned by a single family and the grapes are still handpicked.
If you are in France, be sure to visit Château Lynch-Bages now through October 31—American figurative painter Ryan Mendoza will exhibit twenty works that he and owner Jean-Michel Cazes have selected for display in the château's old vatting room. Or any time for that matter: "Visits to the Château conclude with a bespoke tasting." Remember to enjoy in moderation; as Vladimir says,"Château Lynch-Bages, réservé aux grandes occasions."
Château Lynch-Bages label courtesy of thewinedoctor.com