1998 Batailley
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Tasting notes
The 1998 Batailley has a straightforward bouquet with blackberry, bilberry, a touch of brine and with aeration a touch of signature Pauillac mintiness. It would certainly benefit from more freshness and delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with a sour note on the entry. This simply feels rather green and there is clearly some under-ripeness towards the raw finish. This feels as if it is a downward slope. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Very interesting gravelly, minerally nose. Lovely ripeness and freshness. Cabernet Franc/Graves impression. Lovely balance. Zesty. Could be appropriate for a really important lunch. (JR)
An excellent dark plum color is followed by scents of tobacco, cedar, black currants, and earth. There is good ripeness, medium to full body, smoky, herb-tinged flavors, and fine length. The tannin is firm, but not excessive. This 1998 is tasting significantly better from bottle than it did during its elevage. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2017.
A succulent red, with tobacco, cherry and berry character. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a barley and fruit aftertaste. Best after 2003. 21,665 cases made. James Suckling, Wine Specator 2001
About the producer
It was on the site of Batailley in 1453 that one of the final battles (or “batailles”) of the Hundred Years’ War took place. Today owned by the Castéja family, the Fifth Growth is renowned for producing wine that is the epitome of classic Claret.