2019 Haut-Batailley (Pauillac)

The third vintage under the Cazes ownership, and happy to see that they maintain a style that is distinct from Lynch Bages, one than emphasizes the elegance that Cabernet Sauvignon can give over the power and concentration of Bages. This has a touch of rusticity on the tannins, with an unfussy elegance, some delicious juicy cassis fruits and a ton of Pauillac character. 92 points

Displaying a deep garnet-purple color, the 2019 Haut-Batailley opens with fragrant notes of blackcurrant cordial, blackberry preserves and redcurrant jelly, leading to suggestions of fragrant soil, dried mint, woodsmoke and Sichuan pepper. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers impactful, vibrant black fruit flavors with a racy line of freshness and finely grained tannins to support, finishing long with lots of savory and mineral sparks. 93-95 points

The 2019 Haut-Batailley, now of course part of the Cazes family`s portfolio, is nicely detailed on the nose with blood orange and even a touch of marmalade tincturing the black fruit. The palate is very intense on the entry, the fruit remarkably pure with fine-grain tannins. This is a Haut-Batailley with ambition: very harmonious with touches of white pepper and cedar towards the finish. Is this a harbinger for things to come? I hope so. 93-95 points