Jeb Dunnuck 92
First created in 2017, the Chteau Haut-Batailley Verso is the new second wine of this estate, which is now run by the talented team at Lynch-Bages. The 2018 Chteau Haut-Batailley Verso has a complex, nuanced, approachable style with classic Pauillac dark fruits, tobacco, lead pencil, and earthy aromas and flavors. Gorgeously fruited, succulent, and seamless, it nevertheless has the balance, structure, and purity to keep for 20 years or more.

James Suckling 92
(91-92 points) Some dark-berry and mineral character with stones as well. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Shows structure and style. Second wine of Haut-Batailley.

Decanter 90
"A little austere and closed right now, not giving much, but there are plenty of firm tannins and well-defined blackberry fruits, held in place by a tannic frame that has Pauillac character. Feels subdued but with potential. Drinking Window 2024 - 2036"

The grand vin 2018 Chteau Haut-Batailley is a beauty and is comprised of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot brought up in 60% new French oak. It's an attractive, elegantly styled wine that has lots of juicy Merlot notes of black cherries, graphite, scorched earth, and spice. Rich, medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and with terrific purity on the palate, this brilliant Pauillac is going to be approachable in just a few years and will evolve gracefully.