The 2021 Batailley shows promise, exhibiting aromas of cassis, plums, licorice, cigar wrapper, loamy soil and dark chocolate, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered and charming palate built around ripe, powdery tannins. Supple and giving, it will offer a broad drinking window. 90-92 points

The 2021 Batailley almost revels in a cooler, challenging vintage like this. It has a well-defined, clean, fresh, classically styled bouquet, with a pencil shaving-infused black fruit aromatic profile that could only come from Pauillac. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip, very harmonious with white pepper and sage, gently building in the mouth toward a cohesive, long, graphite-tinged finish. This is a Batailley that feels comfortable in its own skin. I suspect it has 25-30 years of drinking pleasure to give. 93 points

Stands out in the appellation, with density through the mid palate, and Pauillac signature coming through in the pencil lead, graphite and cassis notes. This is a good quality wine with a touch of blackcurrant bud and earth reflecting the cooler temperatures of the year, but plenty of depth and ageing potential. Tasted twice. 92 points