Haut Batailley 2010 (750ML)

94 JS / 92+ WA / 91 RP

This is firm and structured with blueberry and hazelnut character. Full body, with fine tannins and a juicy finish. So long and pretty. Wonderful texture. Better after 2017. - James Suckling

Tasted at a vertical tasting at the château. The 2010 Haut Batailley is beginning to reach the potential I enthused about when I first tasted this from barrel. Much like the 2009 Haut-Batailley, it has a very expressive bouquet that needs a lot of coaxing from the glass. And like many 2010s it is a broody bugger, stubborn and obdurate but when you get to the palate...this is where the action is! This is where the quality positively shines through with very fine tannin: extremely pure fruit, a judicious touch of spice and a long and tender finish that is seamless. It needs 8-10 years for those aromatics to open but judging by the quality of the palate, it will be worth the wait. - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate

Sexy creme de cassis notes along with a big kiss of cedar wood, spice box and licorice are all present in this dense, ruby/purple-colored wine, which is lush and silky smooth, with opulence and early appeal. It can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 years. Owned by Xavier Borie, the proprietor of the better-known Grand Puy Lacoste, this 2010 is a beauty and one of the strongest efforts he’s produced over recent years. - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate