The 1986 Haut-Batailley has matured in splendid fashion. The nose is engaging, a mixture of red and black fruit, gravel and spice. Juxtaposed against the 1996 Haut-Batailley I find more energy in this, despite being ten years older. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, earthy black fruit with good acidity. It is not a complex Pauillac and the finish feels a tad staid, although the residue of white pepper and bay leaf on the finish is very pleasurable. This 1986 is clearly à point and should be drunk now and over the next 8-10 years. Tasted July 2016.