2004 Chateau Haut-Batailley
By Chateau Haut-Batailley
2004 Chateau Haut-Batailley from Chateau Haut-Batailley, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 2004 vintage from Pauillac presents a compelling narrative, one that often eludes the limelight amid the shadow of its more illustrious neighbouring vintages. In my meticulous exploration of Bordeaux's offerings, few wines echo the charm of this quietly confident year as persuasively as the 2004 Chateau Haut-Batailley from Chateau Haut-Batailley.
Refinement and Resilience: The Essence of Investment Grade Claret
The discerning investor will note that the 2004 Chateau Haut-Batailley encapsulates an inexplicably alluring combination of refinement and resilience. A considered investment, it crowns a cellar with that deft touch of sophistication so sought after by connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Character and Complexity: A Study in Temperance
ViviScore indicators for 2004 Bordeaux reds speak to balance rather than bravura, and here, our subject is the archetype. The claret's garnet hue, lighter than some peers from the decade, hints at its graceful evolution. On the nose, this wine proffers an aristocratic bouquet dominated by cedar, complemented by whispers of tobacco and a mélange of blackcurrants and plums that have truly stood the test of time. Its palate is robust yet refined, with herculean tannins now polished to a silky submission – undoubtedly the fruit of meticulous ageing and an attentive vignette.
Terroir plays the discreet hero in 2004; Chateau Haut-Batailley’s illustrious gravel beds bequeathed gifts of poise and precision within this vintage. The moderate, yet advantageous climatic conditions of that season wrought a Pauillac of profound structure and modest alcohol levels – a combination where finesse is found in restraint rather than abundance.
In sum, the 2004 Chateau Haut-Batailley from Chateau Haut-Batailley ushers forth an ensemble of characteristics emblematic of a poised Pauillac. It is for those who invest as much with cerebral contemplation as with capital that such a wine reveals its true worth – an articulate expression from a region synonymous with viticultural virtuosity.
Current market price
$790.00
12x75cl
Highest score
86
POP score
78.33
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at a vertical tasting at the château. The 2004 Haut Batailley was very closed on the nose and I actually prefer the 2003 in terms of personality. It reluctantly offers tarry black fruit, smoke and tobacco but it feels quite pinched. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, nicely balanced and though not a complex Pauillac, there is a slightly meatiness on the finish as its moves into secondary flavors that partly compensates for the meanness of the aromatics. Perhaps another couple of years in bottle might help. That said, instincts tell me that the best years might already be behind it. Tasted July 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 June 2017