Chateau Batailley Pauillac (Grand Cru Classe) 2016

Château Batailley Pauillac (Grand Cru Classé) 2016: Tasting Notes and Food Pairings

Château Batailley, a Fifth Growth (5ème Cru Classé) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, offers a quintessential Pauillac expression. The 2016 vintage is regarded as one of its finest recent releases. Let's delve into the tasting profile of this classic wine and explore some delectable food pairings to elevate your culinary experience.

Tasting Profile:

On the nose, the 2016 Château Batailley Pauillac greets you with an intense and captivating bouquet. Blackcurrants, cassis, and ripe plums dominate the initial aroma, followed by subtle hints of graphite and fresh mint. As the wine opens up, cedar wood, violets, and a touch of spice emerge, adding complexity to the profile. The influence of 60% new oak is evident with a touch of vanilla and mocha, but it is beautifully integrated and complements the fruit characters without overpowering them.

The palate is medium-bodied with a core of lively acidity that provides a refreshing feel. Fine-grained tannins grip the mouth but are approachable and well-structured. Flavours of blackcurrant, cedar, and pencil lead take centre stage, intertwined with hints of tobacco and leather. The oak influence is more pronounced on the palate, offering a touch of mocha and spice that lingers on the elegant finish.

Food Pairings:

Château Batailley 2016 is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggested food pairings to bring out the best in both the wine and the cuisine:

• Red Meat: This wine is a perfect match for grilled or roasted red meats. The robust tannins can stand up to the richness of rib-eye steak, lamb chops, or venison.
• Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding: A classic British roast beef with Yorkshire pudding is a perfect pairing for this Pauillac. The rich gravy and Yorkshire pudding complement the wine's full body and savoury notes, while the horseradish adds a touch of piquancy that cuts through the richness.
• Lamb Shanks: Slow-cooked lamb shanks offer a luxurious and flavourful experience. The braised lamb pairs beautifully with the wine's earthy notes and tannins, while the rich sauce complements the fruit character.
• Grilled Veggies and Portobello Mushrooms: Don't underestimate the power of vegetarian pairings. Grilled vegetables and portobello mushrooms offer a meaty texture that can hold its own against the wine's tannins. The smokiness from grilling complements the cedar and tobacco notes in the wine.
• Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar or Gruyère cheese provides a delicious contrast to the wine's fruit and tannins. The creaminess of the cheese cuts through the tannins, while the salty flavours enhance the fruit character.

Drinking Window:

The 2016 Château Batailley Pauillac is still young and has the potential to age gracefully for another 10-15 years. However, it is already enjoyable when decanted for 30-60 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips:

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Château Batailley 2016 at a cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C (60-64°F). Use appropriate glassware, such as large Bordeaux bowls, to allow the aromas to develop fully.

Conclusion:

Château Batailley 2016 is a testament to the quality and finesse achievable in Pauillac. This classic Bordeaux offers an enticing bouquet, a well-structured palate, and the potential to age gracefully. With its versatility in food pairings, this wine is sure to impress any wine enthusiast. So, uncork a bottle, savour the intricate flavours, and enjoy the essence of Pauillac in every sip.