Chateau Haut Batailley Chateau Haut Batailley

2017 Chateau Haut-Batailley

By Chateau Haut-Batailley

2017 Chateau Haut-Batailley from Chateau Haut-Batailley, Pauillac, Bordeaux

In the revered terroirs of Pauillac, the 2017 vintage from Chateau Haut-Batailley unfolds eloquently, reflecting an exceptionally promising year. Notwithstanding a frost that challenged many, this estate's deft adaptation yielded a crop that is both rare and rewarding, encapsulating the resilient spirit of Bordeaux’s winemaking. The 2017 Chateau Haut-Batailley from Chateau Haut-Batailley emerges as an exemplar for investment-worthy clarets, marrying nuanced complexity with an enticing vibrancy.

 

Weathering Nature’s Whims: The 2017 Vintage Triumph

The year 2017 saw Bordeaux grappling with climatic caprices, including an unexpected bout of frost that posed a genuine threat to potential yields across the region. Yet, the discerning viticulturists at Chateau Haut-Batailley shielded their precious plots with aplomb, resulting in a harvest that exhibits an enigmatic balance of ripeness and structural integrity. This phenomenon bespeaks of a vintage graced by adversity, yet unyielding in its quality—a touchstone for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

 

A Tapestry of Aromatic Intrigue and Tannic Finesse

The poise of the 2017 Chateau Haut-Batailley is immediately apparent upon engaging with its deep garnet hue and glistening rim. An alluring bouquet serves as prelude; dark cherries and black currants interwoven with cigar box and graphite hints bespeak of classic Pauillac pedigree. The palate plays host to the lush generosity of silky tannins which frame flavours evocative of ripe berries seasoned delicately with earthy undertones and a tickle of spice. Unveiling layer upon layer, this redoubtable wine is resonant with a finish that sings long into the night.

The potential for cellaring cannot be overstated—the governance under which Chateau Haut-Batailley crafts its wine promises a splendid evolution over time. It’s no surprise that finer vintages like this demonstrate impressive performance in both maturation and market appreciation. Choice investors will find astute merit in allocating the 2017 Chateau Haut-Batailley into their portfolios.

In sum, the 2017 vintage from Chateau Haut-Batailley exemplifies the liquid architecture characteristic of Pauillac's most venerable estates. Its tapestry of sensory delight articulates not just an oenological narrative for the year but also stands as a veritable testament to the wine's citadel of longevity and value. A prudent addition to an investor’s cellars—and indeed, a treasure for future decantation.

Market price (GBP)

£440.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

29.33

Scores and tasting notes

94-95

This is very structured and serious. Full-bodied, tannic and powerful. Boom. This is one of the best Haut-Batailleys in years. From the new owners, who also own Lynch-Bages.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com

91-94

The 2017 Haut-Batailley is a hugely promising wine. Sumptuous and expressive in the glass, with gorgeous layers of fruit that unfold effortlessly, the 2017 has quite a bit to offer. Silky tannins add an air of sensuality to a core of dark fruit, lavender, leather and spice notes. Tasted next to the bottled 2016, the 2017 speaks with an effortless refinement. The oak is especially well judged for a young wine. The Cazes family is putting a serious amount of investment behind their newest acquisition. Among other things, an ambitious replanting program is underway. Jean-Charles Cazes told me yields were generous in 2017, which is quite unusual for the year.

Antonio Galloni - Antonio Galloni - vinous.com - May '18

92

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Haut Batailley sings of baked blackberries, black cherry compote and warm cassis with hints of fungi and tilled soil. Medium-bodied, the palate is packed with black fruit flavors and loads of earthy accents, framed by firm, grainy tannins, finishing savory.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 16 March 2020

89-92

This has good currant and damson fruit lined with tobacco and iron notes. Offers slightly dusty tannins but remains fresh and focused overall.—J.M.

Wine Spectator - James Molesworth - winespectator.com

90-92

The 2017 Haut Batailley, which is matured in 60% new oak for 18 months, is clearly more sophisticated than the second wine, polished by the oak of course but underneath its intense blackberry and boysenberry fruit, quite floral with touches of violet and iris. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity, well-integrated oak and very smooth polished finish that glides across the mouth. There is fine precision on the finish. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Neal Martin - Neal Martin - vinous.com - May '18

Vintage performance