Château Batailley, 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, 2011
Chateau Batailley along with Chateau Haut Batailley (now joined in wedlock after a Borie Casteja marriage) are regular candidates for the best value Pauillac. These are classified growths that produce good quality, fairly prices wines that really appeal to claret drinkers. Produced from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2011 is packed with juicy, brambly fruit, plenty of extract and finely worked tannins. This may not be the most complex Pauillac, but it is charming and will offer great value for money.
critic reviews
A quiet vintage, crayon, graphite, rose bud, mint leaf, cigar box, still a little reserved and austere, but a fabulous wine underlining the consistency of this property. 55% new oak for ageing, Denis Dubourdieu consultant., Philippe Casteja owner.
The 2011 Batailley has a strict, fresh, graphite tinged bouquet with more fruité than its peers, very well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, taut and linear, very good tension here with that vein of graphite running through to the finish. Classy. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.