Tasted at the Batailley vertical tasting at the chateau. The 1881 Batailley is, in fact, the most venerable vintage housed in the property's extensive library; remarkably, this was one of 15 bottles opened by Philippe Castèja. Firstly, it was clean in color, with typical mature bricking for a 19th century Claret. The bouquet is fresh and lively—the proverbial "old lace." It is not profound or complex, yet it exuded remarkable freshness, with traces of red cherry fruit and Cuban cigar humidor. The palate is clearly stitched together by the remarkable line of acidity, so much so that it was almost like a mature Chambolle-Musigny. Yet what remains of the structure after 135 years is definitely Bordeaux, with touches of spicebox and tobacco on the pert finish. It is a fascinating Pauillac and—most importantly—one that, crucially, was still thoroughly enjoyable after more than a century. Tasted April 2016.
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