An old-school favourite gets better than ever
This morning sees the release of 2020 Batailley. We're used to liking Batailley - it's always been an Uncorked favourite. But the sample we saw last month was outstanding, and showcases the way the last few vintages have taken Batailley to a new level. Packed with cassis and bramble, cedar and cigar box, pencil shavings and cured meat, it is a big, serious, structured wine - and quintessential Pauillac. The Merlot was especially aromatic this vintage, so there is a slightly higher proportion than usual in the blend: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon/26% Merlot/2% Cabernet Franc/2% Petit Verdot. In the winery, fermentation was kept cool and pumpover managed very gently to achieve finer tannins. Estate director Phillipe Casteja has been making a lot of changes here over the last decade, and is manifestly delighted by the way they have been bearing fruit: new cellars, the introduction of a second wine, parcel by parcel vinification. Jane Anson is already looking forward to this one in 10 years' time, and so are we. /NT
'Takes its time to unroll then shows sweetness to the black cherry and brambled blackberries fruits, followed by cigar, pencil lead and crushed stone. This is signature Batailley in that it has that essence-of-Pauillac feel. A delicious wine, such a great great drinking claret, really one to look out for in this vintage; already looking forward to drinking this in 10 years time. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 60% new oak. A yield of 42hl/ha.' - 94 points, Jane Anson, decanter.com, May 2020
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Offered subject to remaining unsold; for shipment Spring 2023
