The 2014 Haut Batailley has a very subtle bouquet, one that bided its time in the glass and then unfolded with scents of blackberry, briary, pencil box and light graphite scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, moderate weight, classic and perhaps conservative in style. Yet the harmony is just wonderful and it slips down the throat almost too easily. As such, I feel this is a more approachable Haut-Batailley compared to other vintages, yet it has the body to reward three of four years of bottle age.

Solidly built, with a core of cassis, plum and anise that builds nicely, backed by brambly grip and a well-buried iron note. The finish is a bit rugged, but the fruit and minerality pump throughout in unison. Should round into form with cellaring. Best from 2019 through 2029. 6,250 cases made.