The Land

Verso is the second wine of Château Haut-Batailley, drawn largely from younger vines or lots deemed less reserved for the Grand Vin. Since 2017 the estate has been under the Cazes family (of Lynch-Bages), who continue efforts to replant and refine the vineyards. The Haut-Batailley vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller parcels of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot (though Verso’s 2022 is composed of 54% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Petit Verdot). In 2022, the ripening was vigorous and the vintage pushed the fruit toward richness; the estate’s terroir (deep gravel soils, Pauillac drainage, maritime influence) helped maintain freshness and definition.

The Wine

Verso 2022 shows a clear tilt toward dark fruit, elegance, and floral lift. On the nose it reveals blackberry, cassis, violet, sweet spice, and hints of cedar. The palate is round, supple, and medium-full in body, with a layered mouthfeel, fine tannins, and a freshness that gives it a nice lift. Notes of dark cherry, plum, leather, tobacco, spice, and cocoa thread through, adding complexity as it evolves. It is meant for earlier approachability than the Grand Vin, yet retains structure and character and is surprisingly excellent given its affordable price point.

The People

Haut-Batailley is a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Médoc classification, historically part of the Borie family holdings before acquisition by the Cazes family. Under the Cazes stewardship, the château is reworking its vineyard plantings, selecting barrels more strictly, and refining its stylistic direction so that even its second wine reflects the house’s identity. Verso provides a window into Haut-Batailley’s vision, a wine that balances approachability with depth, offering consumers a taste of Pauillac pedigree without the full austerity of the flagship wine.

Food Pairing

Red Wine–Braised Short Ribs with Herbs & Cheese Grits

Slow-braised short ribs, sweet shallots, and creamy cheese grits call for a wine that’s equally layered and composed. Château Haut-Batailley “Verso” 2022 brings Pauillac depth and graphite-tinged precision to the dish, its dark cherry fruit cutting through the richness while its tannins frame every bite. A bit of a time commitment, but this dish is well worth it and utterly satisfying on a chilly fall evening. Recipe on blog.

Château Cos d'Estournel Saint-Estèphe 2016

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