Chateau Batailley, 5eme Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004

"The 2004 Batailley has long been one of the "hidden pleasures" of this vintage. Now at 14 years of age I find no reason to alter that view. Here it has a pure bouquet with blackberry, cedar and a touch of kirsch, the latter a trait that I have not noticed before. The palate is medium-bodied with a structured, slightly austere entry. Then it opens up nicely and reveals plenty of black fruit and quite a dense structure. Yes, it remains a bit foursquare in typical Batailley fashion, but that tobacco-infused finish is just what you expect from any upstanding Pauillac." - Neal Martin