Château Batailley – 1971

A Pauillac 5^th growth. (There is no second wine at this property; Château Haut-Batailley is rather the result of the previously larger Batailley being split into two properties in 1942 to avoid difficulties with inheritance laws. Château Haut-Batailley does have a second wine, Château La Tour L’Aspic.)

Wood and wood spice, a little liqourice – not a great deal of fruit left except that hint of overripe orange characteristic of late maturity. Delicate rather than dense, it doesn’t have intense tertiary flavour elements, but a classic mature Claret character. It remains a delicious drink.

89 points