2009 Batailley

11/05/10

Looking for top class Pauillac from a classed growth chateau from a legend-in-the-making Bordeaux vintage? Without breaking the bank (again)? Enter the genial Philippe Casteja. He can, it seems, always be relied on to release his Chateau Batailley priced to sell. Despite obvious temptation, this morning he's done so again, and his 2009 - which looks set to rival the best wines ever made here - is a very definite must-buy on a tight budget.

'Picking commenced with the Merlot on the 24th September, for the Cabernet we started on the 29th September, finishing on 11th October and the Petit Verdot the 12th October. A blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, this Batailley has a ripe nose of blackberry, black plum, sandalwood, mint and just a hint of white flowers. Not a huge intense nose, but much more refined, very Pauillac. The palate is medium-bodied, rounded and quite supple tannins, yet good backbone as always on this Batailley. Very harmonious, insistent but gentle grip, a slightly powdery texture towards the finish lending a pleasurable sense of umami. Very focused and elegant towards the finish, classic in style and yet very "2009". This has the potential to be a benchmark Batailley after bottling (just be prudent on the oak please!). 94-96 points.' - Neal Martin, erobertparker.com/winejournal

View all 2009 Bordeaux en primeur