Chateau Haut Batailley 2005
Truly a Pauillac with St Julien personality, this Classed Growth is run by the talented Xavier Borie of Grand Puy Lacoste with consultant Professor Denis Dubourdieu, who produces very wines of classic Cabernet Sauvignon character here. The 2005 in fact uses the highest proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon ever - 78%, with 22% Merlot. Very classic nose with lots of mint, blackberry and cedar with coffee and spice notes on the powerful finish. Restrained as some may say, it is the more elegant Pauillac ready to drink by now.
94 points Wine Spectator
Offers a beautiful nose of crushed blackberry and cherry, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with a lovely balance of silky, caressing tannins and ripe fruit. Very long and minerally, with mint and eucalyptus character. A wonderful wine from this estate. Best after 2014. (3/2008)
92 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Proprietor Xavier Borie has turned out a beautiful silky-textured Pauillac revealing classic creme de cassis, licorice, and tar-like characteristics interwoven with cedar and roasted herb notes. Medium-bodied and elegant, it is more St.-Julien-like in personality than Pauillac. But who’s complaining? This 2005 will provide lovely drinking in its youth, yet age well for 15 or more years. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. (RP) (4/2008)
