Château Batailley Pauillac 1855 5ième Cru 2005

Old school charm, well balanced, pencil lead, crayon, graphite, cassis, plum, mint leaf, signature Batailley, bounding energy, in the way that Gloria was finessed classic St Julien, this plays the same role in Pauillac. Sums up why 2005 works – so drinkable today and yet will keep on delivering for 30 years. Love this. Doesn’t shout out its presence, but it just exudes confidence and restrained power. 50% new oak, Denis Dubourdieu consultant, Philippe Castéja owner.