Chateau Haut-Batailley is a Left Bank Bordeaux wine property that was originally part of Chateau Batailley, a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Classification. Jointly owned by Francis and Marcel Borie, they divided the estate between them in 1942.

Marcel took the Batailley half, including the chateau. The smaller part went to Francis who purchased additional vineyard land from Chateau Duhart-Milon to increase the size of his Haut Batailley vineyards. Now managed by Francois-Xavier Borie, Chateau Haut-Batailley is part of the Borie family of estates that includes Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou and Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste.

The 22 hectares of Chateau Haut-Batailley are on a gently sloping outcrop at the southern edge of Pauillac. They are planted with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc on exceptional soils of deep gravel and alluvial stones. This ensures excellent drainage of rainwater and encourages deep roots. The average age of the vines is 35 years old.

In 2005, Francois-Xavier Borie began a major program of construction, building a modern vat house, new harvest facilities and a bottling room, all in harmony with the pre-existing decor.

Chateau Haut-Batailley is a Bordeaux blend dominated by a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted both before and after de-stemming.

Prior to fermentation, the grapes undergo a long, cool maceration of three weeks. When fermentation is complete, the wines age from 16 to 18 month in French oak barrels, 60% of which are new.

Allow me to introduce the exquisite 2016 Haut Batailley, a Bordeaux Blend from the renowned Pauillac region in France. This red wine exudes elegance and sophistication, captivating both the palate and the senses.

In the glass, the Haut Batailley displays a deep garnet-purple color that entices the eye with its richness and depth. The nose is greeted with an array of enticing aromas, including baked redcurrants, red plums, and cassis. These fruity notes are complemented by hints of asphalt, fried herbs, and earth, creating a complex and intriguing bouquet.

On the palate, this medium-bodied wine reveals its true character. Firm and chewy, the texture is balanced and harmonious, showcasing the true essence of Pauillac. The earthy finish lingers, inviting another sip and leaving a lasting impression.

Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the 2016 Haut Batailley a well-deserved score of 92+. Lisa Perrotti-Brown describes the wine as having an earthy finish and notes the baked redcurrant and plum aromas. James Suckling also praises this magnificent creation, awarding it an impressive score of 94. He highlights the captivating aromas of blackcurrants and blueberries, along with the gorgeous tannins and bright finish. Jeb Dunnuck echoes these sentiments, awarding the wine a score of 92 and commending its classic Pauillac characteristics of dried tobacco, leather, and spicy dark fruits. Decanter also joins the chorus of praise, awarding the 2016 Haut Batailley a score of 92. They note the sweet black fruits, well-worked tannins, and silky texture, making it an enjoyable and approachable wine.

The 2016 Haut Batailley is a true gem in the world of Bordeaux wines. With its impeccable balance, concentration, and purity, it promises to evolve gracefully over the next two decades or more. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for a few years, this wine is sure to delight the most discerning connoisseurs. Cheers to the timeless elegance of Haut Batailley!