2015 Chateau Haut-Batailley 5eme Cru Classe, Pauillac

The 2015 Haut Batailley is a blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot, matured in 60% new oak. It was picked between 21 September until 2 October. It is a level up from the 2015 Lacoste Borie with much more fruit intensity: blackberry, boysenberry, tobacco and cedar aromas. It gathers momentum in the glass and develops a subtle mint accent. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, lithe tannin, very well balanced with just a slight tinniness that will disappear by the time in bottle. I love the pencil shaving sprinkled over the aftertaste here. With very good substance and impressive length, this is a classic Pauillac that I suspect will offer 25 or 30 years of pleasure.

– eRobertParker.com, April 2016

Racy and balanced red with black currant, plum and berry aromas and flavors. Full body, soft and silky tannins, Elegant.

– jamessuckling.com, April 2016

Amazing value claret from Xavier Borie which always punches well above its weight. Attractive, pure, great vineyard expression. Ripe red and black fruit, lovely supple mouthfeel but with decent structure and freshness. Dark, sweet fruit and lively acidity. Lovely. (72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot.)

This has a rather streamlined feel, with notes of red currant preserves, violet and iron all in lock step from start to finish. Shows nice purity.

– James Molesworth (WineSpectator.com, April 2016)

72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot. 49 hl/ha.
Bright limpid crimson. Quite tense and exciting spiciness on the nose. Rich and ripe. Quite forward but good savoury undertow. Lots of energy. Dry but not drying end. A good effort! Nothing forced. Drink 2024-2040.

– jancisrobinson.com, Apr 2016