2020, Château Haut Batailley, PAUILLAC, 5ème Grand Cru Classé

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

The property was sold to the Cazes family of neighbouring Lynch Bages in March 2017. Quality has jumped under the new ownership. The vines are extremely well situated, bordering those of Lynch Bages, Les Forts de Latour and Pichon Lalande. Bursting with red and black fruit in equal measure, giving a glossy, silky texture. The tannins are fine and ripe, giving the wine superb poise. Bright acidity adds real vibrancy and allows the slick, fleshy fruit to shine through to the finish. This is another superb iteration of Haut Batailley under Cazes stewardship. 93-95 Farr Vintners, London.

This is really minerally and stony with lots of chewy tannins. Medium-to full-bodied with a clean, fresh finish. Very classic Pauillac. 94-95 James Suckling. Gorgeous texture here, this has real balance and a sense of careful walking through the palate, a juiciness and tension, with a saline kick. An enjoyably sleek wine, not as powerful as the Lynch Bages, and not intended to be either. Some chocolate notes as it opens, but this has an elegance to it. 93 Jane Anson, Decanter

Beautifully pure notes of blackcurrant jelly, juicy blackberries and warm plums, plus hints of chocolate mint, lilacs and forest floor with a touch of ground cloves. The refreshing, medium-bodied palate gives a great burst of crunchy black berries, framed by finely grained tannins. 92-94 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate.