1986 Château Batailley
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Tasting notes
The 1986 Batailley is a vintage that has never really endeared itself, at least to this writer. The nose is earthy and very austere, evoking images of a dusty attic in an old stately home. The palate is medium-bodied and mature with dry tannins, lacking the depth of fruit to offset the austere nature of this wine. Frankly, I find much more pleasure from the 1959 and the 2004 Batailley poured alongside. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1986's rating may turn out to be conservative as this wine tends to show better after 10-12 years in the bottle than it does when young. Made from 70 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 1986 is full bodied, deep ruby/purple in color, but extremely hard and tannic. However, it appears to have the depth and concentration of fruit necessary to outlast the tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015. Last tasted, 4/90.
The 1986's rating may turn out to be conservative as this wine tends to show better after 10-12 years in the bottle than it does when young. Made from 70 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 1986 is full bodied, deep ruby/purple in color, but extremely hard and tannic. However, it appears to have the depth and concentration of fruit necessary to outlast the tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015. Last tasted, 4/90. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com
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.