Batailley 2019

The 2019 Batailley, picked 16 September until 7 October, has an impressive bouquet with plenty of concentration, though it manages to remain the traditional classic style associated with this Pauillac estate. Blackberry, forest floor and freshly rolled tobacco burst from the glass, demonstrating fine purity and delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. I was most impressed by the balance and poise, almost as if it has a newfound sophistication very evident on the finish. This is a superb Batailley, one of the finest that I have encountered in recent years. 2026 - 2060.

Casting a deep garnet-purple color, the 2019 Batailley offers up a beautiful perfume of candied violets, chocolate box and star anise over a core of cassis, stewed black cherries, espresso and wild blueberries plus a hint of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid foundation of ripe, grainy tannins and lovely freshness supporting the generous black fruit preserves and coffee-laced layers, finishing long and fragrant. 2025 - 2050

A very cabernet-driven red with currants, light cedar, vanilla and flowers. It’s full-bodied, tight and powerful. Impressive finish. Classic. 74% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 1% petit verdot.

The 2019 Batailley is powerful and brooding in the glass. Dark fruit, leather, smoke, tobacco, cedar, game and grilled herbs add to an impression of virile intensity. It would be nice to see a bit more finesse.

The 2019 is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. Deep ruby in colour with its now halmark meaty, spicy oak on the nose, this is dense with blackcurrant in aroma. The palate follows, with spicy, peppery black fruit in the middle and glossy, ripe tannins. The fruit and oak linger together on the long finish.

More Pauillac character than the Lynch Moussas, this is where you get the characteristic slate, pencil lead and menthol against the beautiful rich cassis and a confident tannic frame. I've had a number of 2009 and 2010 vintages of Batailley recently that have totally sung at 10 years old and you can easily see that this vintage will deliver the same enjoyment. Drinking Window 2028 - 2042