Pauillac showing its class
"Pauillac is one of my favourite Bordeaux communes, driven by Cabernet Sauvignon the wines classically show great structure and have excellent ageing potential. The 2001s are starting to come into their own now, and the ever-reliable Château Batailley has really come out of her shell. The nose is classic Pauillac, complex and full of cigar-box, toasted leather, cedar and porcini mushroom with plenty of cassis still evident. The tannins are nicely integrated, still present but smooth and refined and it carries a nice gentle weight on the palate which follows through from the nose with a touch of sweet anise and a mellow character. If you're after a good classed growth Bordeaux that's coming gracefully into its drinking stage, the 2001 Château Batailley is everything it should be."