Château Batailley, 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, 2017
The creation of a second wine has led to greater selection and it feels like there is more precision during the winemaking. Batailley was always a favourite gentleman's claret for its good value, and easy-going earthy Pauillac character. The new style of Batailley is much more sleek and refined. Initially perfumed and glossy with an abundance of dark berry fruit with just a hint of minerals and a few toasty notes. The palate is wonderfully pure. This speaks of high quality Cabernet fruit, it is slick with plenty of extract and waves of dark cassis and ripe loganberry. We have felt in the past that the team here was being a little over ambitious, but this is measured and feels natural and elegant. The tannins are chewy and grippy and coated in bright fruit; one is left with the impression of freshness and lift. This is a very impressive, modern Batailley. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot.
critic reviews
Of all the underestimated vintages in Pauillac, it is perhaps 2017 that I would most suggest that people get on board with, and here is a great example of why. Generous, soft, tender tannins, a ton of graphite and blackberry, hedgerow, mouthwatering oyster shell on the finish. Soft brambled fruits, no need to wait to begin enjoying, what's not to like here? Axel Marchal and Valerie Lavigne consultants, Philippe Casteja owner.