| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Left Bank > Pauillac |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Historically a part of Batailley until the property was split in two in the 1940's. Until recently this Chateau was owned by the Aunt of Grand Puy Lacoste proprietor Xavier Borie who made the wine. The 40 hectare property has 22 hectares of vines (average age 35 years) and these are planted with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. The property was recently sold to the Cazes family of neighbouring Lynch Bages and it will be interesting to see what changes are made here.
The 2016 Haut-Batailley (...) has an airy and well-defined bouquet of blackberry, graphite and subtle floral aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins and very classic in style, displaying impressive grip. I appreciate the substance toward the finish, and the pencil lead lingering on the aftertaste. This is an outstanding Haut-Batailley. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting. 2022 - 2042
The blackcurrants and blueberries with violets on the nose are fascinating. Full-bodied and very tightly wound with gorgeous tannins and a linear and bright finish. Needs two to four years to come together. Try after 2023.
The 2016 Haut Batailley has a deep garnet-purple color and aromas of baked redcurrants, red plums and cassis with asphalt, fried herbs and earth. The palate is medium-bodied, firm and chewy with an earthy finish. 2019 - 2033
Made by Borie and bottled by Cazes (ownership of this property transferred from the Borie family to the Cazes family in 2017). Never released en primeur.
Tasted blind. First bottle oxidised. Second bottle: Smooth and very polished. Drawing-room wine. Polished to within an inch of its life – very effectively! Attractive stuff for relatively early drinking.
Drink 2025 – 2040
The 2016 Haut Batailley can be seen as a transitional wine. The property was sold to the Cazes family at the end of March 2017, so the Borie family made the wines and the Cazes family essentially finished the barrel maturation. As a consequence, the label will probably not be the new design that will adorn vintages henceforth. This has a tightly wound bouquet of blackberry, bilberry and subtle floral notes (pressed iris petals and a touch of violet). The palate is medium-bodied with fine, slightly chalky tannins. What I love about this Haut-Batailley, caught in limbo, is that it responds with so much freshness, vitality and tension, especially on the finish. Excellent. Drink 2022-2042.
Historically a part of Batailley until the property was split in two in the 1940's. Until recently this Chateau was owned by the Aunt of Grand Puy Lacoste proprietor Xavier Borie who made the wine. The 40 hectare property has 22 hectares of vines (average age 35 years) and these are planted with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. The property was recently sold to the Cazes family of neighbouring Lynch Bages and it will be interesting to see what changes are made here. Due to the changing of ownerhsip just prior to En Primeur tastings, this wine will not be sold En Primeur in 2016, but will not be used to make Lynch Bages.
