Chateau Haut-Batailley 1996

Professional Ratings

• 91 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  While this may be the most impressive Haut-Batailley I have ever tasted, I am reluctant to go out on a limb and give this wine a higher rating until I can taste it a few more times from both cask and bottle. The wine exhibits a dense purple color, as well as a wonderfully sweet, classic Pauillac nose of black currants and cigar box notes. Powerful for Haut-Batailley (normally a light, elegant, supple Pauillac), the 1996 possesses intense fruit, medium to full body, ripe tannin, and a surprisingly long, layered finish. This appears to be a classic, and may merit an outstanding score.
  Range: 89-91
• 90 Wine Spectator
  Aromas of blackberries and cassis, with hints of toasted oak. Full-bodied, chewy and rich. A bit one-dimensional on the palate.