2016 Château Batailley, 5ème Cru Pauillac

85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot

Batailley has long been a favourite of ours - a very consistent Pauillac which punches well above its weight. With 85% cabernet giving silky tannins and sublime cassis fruit, this 2016 may even exceed the brilliant 2015. In some very favourable critic reviews, has been variously described as "fantastic", "dramatic" and "a buy, for sure"! Drink 2024-2040+.

It has an intense graphite infused bouquet with fine delineation, some freshly picked Pauillac mint coming through with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin that grip the mouth insistently; with graphite and tobacco-infused black fruit dominating, this a classically styled Batailley in the vein of previous vintages with the elegance coming through towards the finish. This is one of those wines that grows on you, perhaps not as easy or as charming to taste as other Pauillac 2016s at this stage, but knowing this property well, I know how it can blossom when it matters, which is when you and I drink it. Drink 2022 - 2050. Scores: 93/95 - Neal Martin

I thought the 2015 defined the new Batailley, but this is fantastic. Full-bodied and so tannic and powerful. Flavors of chocolate, coffee and spices. Excellent finish. Very muscular. Tight and precise. Scores: 95/96 - James Suckling

Lifted, sweet and very Pauillac on the nose. Thick and sweet on the palate though - rather different from the nose. Pretty sharp on the palate with some overtones of the right bank even though the nose is pure Pauillac. Quite a dramatic play, this wine! Drama in spades. Drink 2025-2043. Scores: 17+ - Jancis Robinson

UB* - Under Bond This wine is available En Primeur. The price shown is not inclusive of UK duty and VAT, which is payable at the prevailing rate (On publication duty was £25.92 per case of 12 x 75cl bottles, plus 20% VAT) upon delivery from bond.Wines will be shipped in the spring of 2019 and we'll contact you once they've arrived. You will have the option to take delivery, or keep your wine in professional storage.