Lions de Batailley 2018, the second wine of Château Batailley, is a superb Pauillac finely expressing the signature characteristics of both its prestigious estate and the Médoc terroir. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by Merlot, this cuvée is emblematic of the classic Bordeaux blend, offering depth, structure, and aromatic complexity. The 2018 vintage benefited from favourable conditions: a wet spring helped replenish the soil, while a long, warm summer facilitated perfect ripening of the grapes, resulting in generous fruit intensity and refined tannins. Vinified with the same care as the Grand Vin, but aimed for earlier drinking, Lions de Batailley strikes a beautiful balance between accessibility and the traditional gravitas of Pauillac.
Pauillac, nestled on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is one of Bordeaux’s most revered appellations, renowned for its gravelly soils that provide excellent drainage and reflect heat onto the vines. This unique terroir imparts elegance and structure to the wines, and Pauillac is famed for producing some of the world’s greatest Cabernet-dominant reds. The region’s maritime climate tempers the extremes, ensuring consistent ripening and vibrant acidity. With a history steeped in viticulture and châteaux of great renown, Pauillac embodies the grandeur of Bordeaux winemaking.
Lions de Batailley 2018 lends itself admirably to dishes rich in flavour and substance, complementing the wine’s firm structure and dark fruit. Classic pairings include roasted lamb—ideally with herb crust or confit garlic—as well as ribeye steak, duck breast, or venison. Regional specialities such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, with its wine reduction sauce, or confit de canard are natural fits. Mature cheeses like Comté or aged hard sheep’s cheese also resonate well with the wine’s depth.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour to allow its bouquet to develop fully. Serve at 16-18°C to enhance the subtlety of its aromatics and the silkiness of its tannins. Over the next five to eight years, it will continue to gain complexity, but it already offers immediate pleasure and typifies the charm of young Pauillac.
