2005 Chateau Haut Batailley, Pauillac

From an exceptional vintage for Bordeaux, the 2005 Chateau Haut Batailley has a very classic nose with lots of mint, blackberry and cedar. The palate is a terrific expression of ripe Cabernet - pure and well-defined with coffee, black fruit and spice notes on the powerful finish. A sophisticated Pauillac that is just hitting its stride.

"Tasted at a vertical tasting at the château. The 2005 Haut Batailley obviously has a more intense bouquet than the 2004 with blackberry, wild hedgerow and cold gravel scents. It is still quite tight, but there is very fine precision here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, ripe earthy black fruit. It is actually more approachable than I was expecting for a 2005 having loosened its tie in recent years. There is great depth here and fine mineralité, completing what is a classy and sophisticated Pauillac that should repay further bottle age. Chapeau!  Drink 2017-2035."  Neal Martin, The wine Advocate