Chateau Haut-Batailley, Pauillac, Bordeaux 2019

Historically a part of Batailley until the property was split in two in the 1940's. Until recently this Chateau was owned by the Aunt of Grand Puy Lacoste proprietor Xavier Borie who made the wine. The 40 hectare property has 22 hectares of vines (average age 35 years) and these are planted with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. The vines border those of Lynch Bages, Les Forts de Latour and Pichon Lalande. The property was sold to the Cazes family of neighbouring Lynch Bages fame in March 2017 who have announced that “This acquisition will strengthen our presence in Pauillac with the aim of undertaking a project distinct from Lynch-Bages. In order to respect the estate’s identity and the integrity of its vineyard, the property will be managed independently and have its own dedicated team of technical experts.” 2017 was the first vintage under Cazes ownership, 2018 was the second and now the 2019 is the third vintage under the Cazes family ownership and it has caught the eye of some famous wine critics for offering sensational value.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: AOC Pauillac, Bordeaux
Grape Varieties: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon & 24% Merlot
Lees ageing: 3 Years in 60% new oak barriques
Winemaker: M. Philippe Gouze
Vineyard Manager: M. Antonio Flores
Average age of vines: 35 Years old
Alcohol: 14.5%
Drink: Now to 2055+

Tasting Note: Deep garnet-purple in color. It tumbles out with expressive notes of black cherry preserves, stewed black plums, and creme de cassis, leading to hints of graphite, chargrill, and tapenade. The medium to full-bodied palate is densely packed with muscular black fruit and earthy layers, framed by firm, grainy tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing with fantastic length. - Tasted by Lisa Perrotti-Brown