Bordeaux 2019: Batailley & Domaine de Chevalier

Batailley

First up this morning Chateau Batailley, from the heart of Pauillac. This is proper Claret, and a classic Pauillac in style.  Since the 2015 vintage they are making a stricter selection and have introduced a new second wine, elevating the quality of Batailley.  2019 is an outstanding vintage which will rank in the top echelon – but they have returned to the former level of pricing making this a compelling buy.

Batailley
2019 - £336/12

2018 - £408
2017 - £393
2016 - £390
2015 - £420
2014 - £335
2010 - £500
2009 - £480
 
“More Pauillac character than the Lynch Moussas, this is where you get the characteristic slate, pencil lead and menthol against the beautiful rich cassis and a confident tannic frame.  I’ve had a number of 2009 and 2010 vintages of Batailley recently that have totally sung at 10 yers old and you can easily see that this vintage will deliver the same enjoyment. Drink 2028-2042”
94 points – Jane Anson, Decanter

Also released this morning: Domaine de Chevalier.  The red is always one of the most interesting wines from the Graves, with beguiling aromatics and elegance in the mouth.  “Lots of intensity and complexity here, as always” – 96-97 James Suckling.
 
Price-wise, Domaine de Chevalier is usually a good deal, for a wine of this quality and distinction.  The 2018 was one of the stars of the vintage and priced reasonably in that context.  The 2019 is offered with a sensible 24% discount from last year, at £247 per 6 / £495 per 12, below other comparable vintages.
 
Domaine de Chevalier Rouge
2019 – £495/12

2018 - £650/12
2017 - £648/12
2015 – £520/12
2014 - £380/12
2010 – £610/12
2009 - £620/12
 
We can also offer Domaine de Chevalier Blanc – one of Bordeaux’s most famous white wines, and deservedly so.  2019 is an exceptional year with ripe fruit, minerality and high acidity so lovers of great white Bordeaux should take note.  "This is an opulent, dense white with dried-apple and honey character. Salty and hot-stone notes, too. Full-bodied, round and phenolic. Formed and beautiful. Quite open. Intense length." - 95-96/100 from James Suckling.  £360/6 and quantities are small. 
 
Other releases today:   Lynch Moussas – good value Pauillac Classed Growth, and St Emilion’s Trotte Vieille.



Offered En Primeur.  Available In Bond UK, Spring 2022.