Château Haut Batailley, 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, 2016
78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Merlot. Grand Puy Lacoste's sister property continues to impress. Aromatically this is slightly reserved compared to the compelling and exotic 2009. This is 'classic' with a capital C. Reserved, cool, brooding bouquet with notes of graphite, black and purple fruits, cut flowers and herbs. The palate is muscular, packed with small berry fruit; this is exquisitely vibrant and juicy with gorgeous texture and beautifully aligned tannins and acidity.
critic reviews
The 2016 Haut-Batailley has a more open bouquet than the '16 Lynch Bages, but quite compelling, with more red fruit here, touches of cedar and undergrowth, superb delineation and plenty of character. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, very well balanced, a little fleshier in style, with a harmonious, lightly spiced finish. This is an absolute charmer. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.
The 2016 Haut-Batailley was tasted from two bottles, the first showing a touch of TCA. The second 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.