Classification:

Cinquième Cru Classé, Pauillac AC  (Fifth-growth in 1855).

Average Production:

Up to 9,000 cases of grand vin annually.

Recent En-Primeur prices:

2008 - approx A$65 - $75

2007 - approx A$65 - $75

2006 - approx A$70 - $90

2005 - approx A$80 - $100

2004 - approx A$55 - $70

Overview:

Certainly one of the lesser-known of Pauillac’s 12 fifth-growths, due to a variety of reasons, but without doubt a lack of  a physical Château and relatively obscure location (inland and secluded) have historically compounded the lack of identity.  Owned by the Borie family, and sister property to another Pauillac fifth-growth, Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Haut-Batailley has certainly made steps in recent vintages to deliver upon its historical recognition, and today is delivering a wine of finesse, good-quality and above all, excellent value. 

It should be noted that contrary to Pauillac’s usual style, the wines of Haut-Batailley tend to be much lighter, fresher and generally best-consumed in their first decade - only the best vintages age well past 10 years of age.

Vineyards:

A mere 20 or so hectares, planted to 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc.  The vineyards themselves are at the southern end of Pauillac - in fact, adjoining the St.-Julien border, which no doubt accounts for the wine’s inherent lightness and perfume - more characteristic of wines from St.-Julien. 

Winemaking:

Maceration and fermentation generally lasts around three weeks, and takes place in stainless steel vats.  The wine spends around 18 months in oak, 30-40% new.  The wine has an egg-white fining and is lightly filtered prior to bottling (although the filtration may be dropped soon).

Click here for tasting notes.