Château Gruaud-Larose
About Château Gruaud-Larose
Château Gruaud Larose in Saint Julien is one of the largest single block vineyards in Bordeaux. It was purchased by Jacques Merlaut in 1997. Under the Taillan Group he owns numerous Bordeaux vineyards such as Château Haut-Bages-Libéral and Château Chasse-Spleen.
With vineyards that haven't changed since the creation of the estate in 1781, they sit at the highest point of elevation on the Saint-Julien plateau, just to the west of Château Beychevelle. Although yet to be certified, Gruaud Larose has begun farming 100% of their vineyards following only biodynamic principles, starting with the 2019 vintage, and they are currently in the last year before organic certification.
The 82-hectare vineyard of Château Gruaud-Larose is planted with approximately 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Some of the parcels of vines are in close proximity to Château Talbot and Château Branaire-Ducru. Since the 2019 vintage, the estate has adopted organic viticulture and biodynamic practices that will undoubtedly take Château Gruaud Larose to new heights.
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Vinous - Ian D'Agata (88)
(64% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc): Bright medium-deep red. Minerals and herbs lift delicate red berry and floral aromas. Enters the mouth fresh, suave and sweet, then turns slightly hollow in the middle, showing clean flavors of red cherry, tobacco and licorice. Finishes with surprising lingering sweetness for a so-so vintage. This charming, medium-bodied wine only lacks a little flesh for a higher score. This was a pleasant surprise in this vertical tasting and should make a very good restaurant wine.Inc. TAX€1,265.82 -
Wine Advocate (96)
A serious, more obviously structured effort than the suave 2019, the 2020 Gruaud Larose opens in the glass with aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries mingled with subtle hints of burning embers, pencil shavings and violets framed by a deft touch of classy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with rich, powdery tannins and vibrant fruit flavors, it concludes with an impressively penetrating finish. However, it appears likely to require patience.Inc. TAX€1,322.84
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Vinous - Ian D'Agata (88)
(64% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc): Bright medium-deep red. Minerals and herbs lift delicate red berry and floral aromas. Enters the mouth fresh, suave and sweet, then turns slightly hollow in the middle, showing clean flavors of red cherry, tobacco and licorice. Finishes with surprising lingering sweetness for a so-so vintage. This charming, medium-bodied wine only lacks a little flesh for a higher score. This was a pleasant surprise in this vertical tasting and should make a very good restaurant wine.In Bond€1,010.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
A serious, more obviously structured effort than the suave 2019, the 2020 Gruaud Larose opens in the glass with aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries mingled with subtle hints of burning embers, pencil shavings and violets framed by a deft touch of classy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with rich, powdery tannins and vibrant fruit flavors, it concludes with an impressively penetrating finish. However, it appears likely to require patience.In Bond€1,065.00