93pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Tasted at the Batailley vertical tasting at the château, the 2005 Batailley continues to be an excellent Pauillac that I suspect is overshadowed by some of its more illustrious and, let's not forget, more expensive neighbors. Here, it has an effervescent bouquet with vibrant red berry fruit and superb mineralité. This is extremely well focused, with hints of rose petal emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with finer tannin than in previous years. I feel there is still some oak to be fully absorbed, so don't be afraid to cellar this 2005 for another four or five years; but, even at this early stage, you can appreciate its precision on the graphite-infused finish. The 2005 Batailley is where the estate began its upward swing that is continuing to this day. Tasted April 2016.

91pts James Suckling

Very muscular and powerful with lots of tannins now, but it will come around. Full body and dense. Leave this alone for three or four years.

90pts Wine Spectator

Has licorice, currant and fresh cèpe on the nose. Full and silky, with lots of sweet tobacco and berry character and plenty of ripe Cabernet fruit. Long and caressing. Best after 2012. 

Wine Enthusiast

This is more about structure and wood than fruit. Where the fruit shows through, it is underwhelming, somewhat austere, and needs more intensity, although it certainly has sweetness. 

About the Wine

The Château's first wine, a Pauillac appellation wine, a 5th Growth Classified since 1855, is typical of Pauillac. With a beautiful dark ruby color, its nose reveals an elegant, rich, and intense bouquet with aromas of black and red fruits.

On the palate, it is well-structured and balanced, with pronounced notes of blackcurrant and spice. It also offers a beautiful and long finish.

Considered a great wine for aging, it ages extremely well and can be kept for many years before being enjoyed.

About the Winery

The name "Batailley" is believed to derive from the "Battle" that took place in 1453 between the French and the English on the lands of the future estate; with the recapture of Château Latour by the French, this year marked the end of the Hundred Years' War. Château Batailley is one of the oldest residences in the commune of Pauillac.

In 1855, Château Batailley was classified as a Fifth Growth of the Médoc, thanks in particular to the improvements made by Daniel Guestier.

The Médoc classification was established at the request of Napoleon III by Bordeaux wine merchants as part of the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1855.

It was developed based on the value of the wines, but also on the reputation of the Châteaux.

Blend: 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot