CHATEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE 2eme Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2005 Bottle (losn)

Description

IN BRIEF
Château Gruaud-Larose 2005 is a distinguished vintage from the prestigious 2ème Grand Cru Classé estate in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. Renowned for its high-quality wines, the 2005 vintage stands out due to ideal growing conditions that allowed the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness. The blend features a dominant proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, resulting in a wine of complexity and depth. In the glass, it presents a deep ruby colour with enticing aromas of ripe blackcurrants, blackberries, and plums, along with notes of cedar and graphite. Rated 94 points by Wine Enthusiast, 93 points by Decanter, and 92 points by Vinous, this wine offers a full-bodied palate with silky tannins, ideal for pairing with rich dishes.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Château Gruaud-Larose 2005 is a distinguished vintage from this esteemed 2ème Grand Cru Classé estate in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. Renowned for producing high-quality wines, the 2005 vintage stands out as one of the finest in recent years, benefiting from ideal growing conditions that allowed the grapes to achieve outstanding ripeness and concentration.

The blend for the 2005 Château Gruaud-Larose typically consists of a dominant proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This combination creates a wine characterized by complexity, structure, and a depth of flavour that is often associated with the great vintages of Bordeaux.

In the glass, the 2005 Gruaud-Larose displays a deep, saturated ruby colour, indicating its richness. The nose is inviting and complex, offering an array of aromas that include ripe blackcurrants, blackberries, and plums, intertwined with notes of cedar, graphite, and a hint of tobacco. As the wine aerates, it reveals additional layers of spice, vanilla, and earthy undertones, creating a captivating aromatic profile.

On the palate, the 2005 vintage is full-bodied and powerful, showcasing a well-rounded structure and velvety tannins that provide a luxurious mouthfeel. The intensity of the fruit flavours is beautifully balanced by a refreshing acidity, allowing the wine to retain its vibrancy and freshness. Flavours of dark fruit compote, chocolate, and a touch of herbal elements typically emerge, leading to a long and satisfying finish.

The 2005 Château Gruaud-Larose has excellent aging potential and can be enjoyed now or cellared for many years to come, with the ability to develop further complexity over time. It pairs wonderfully with richer dishes, such as roasted meats, duck, or hearty stews, enhancing the overall dining experience.

In summary, the Château Gruaud-Larose 2005 is a remarkable wine that exemplifies the artistry of Bordeaux winemaking. Its compelling aromas, rich flavours, and elegant structure make it a true jewel for collectors and enthusiasts, promising a memorable tasting experience.

WINE ENTHUSIAST 94 points
This tastes of great Cabernet Sauvignon, with its black currant, cedar and herbs and fresh, juicy acidity. It is as fresh as it is rich, but it has a structure of dense tannins that balances the wine. This is one of the best wines from Gruaud-Larose for several years. — Roger Voss

DECANTER 93 points
Tasted by: Alice Brandon
(at BBR London, 26 Sep 2025)
Drinking Window: 2025 - 2040
This is always a wine that has split opinion in 2005. In this example I found a beautifully balanced nose of subtle black fruit showing great power and intensity. A rustic edge. Menthol and eucalyptus help deliver some refreshing notes that bely the power. The palate has silky fine tannins, with an inky and blackberry filled finish. An exceptionally good Gruaud.

VINOUS 92 points
The 2005 Gruaud Larose, which was decanted for 30 minutes upon my request, replicated its performance a couple of years ago. This was the final vintage to include Malbec (1%). It has a very "useful" bouquet of blackberry, juniper berries and cedar that opens with vigour in the glass with satisfying intensity. The palate is slightly less "broad-shouldered" than before, very powerful to the point of being almost overpowering, and the slightly feral finish slightly shifts it away from Bordeaux typicité. Drink now or over the next 20 years. Tasted at the château. - Neal Martin

THE WINE ADVOCATE 90 points
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
Drink Date: 2015 - 2030
The 2005 Gruaud Larose has a deep ruby/purple color, excellent concentration, and clean, pure black and red currant fruit, licorice and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, lush, and very soft and round. I’m surprised how drinkable it is already, although it is certainly capable of lasting 15 or more years.
Published: Jun 29, 2015

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ABOUT CHATEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE
Château Gruaud-Larose is a distinguished winery located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France. Established in the 18th century, it is classified as a Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, representing an enduring legacy of quality and craftsmanship in winemaking. The estate's rich history and commitment to excellence make it one of the most respected names in the region.

The vineyard at Château Gruaud-Larose spans approximately 82 hectares, with a focus on the classic Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The terroir is characterised by well-drained gravelly soils, which, combined with the temperate maritime climate, provide ideal conditions for producing high-quality grapes. The vineyard management practices prioritise sustainability and the health of the land, promoting biodiversity and ensuring the vitality of the vines.

The winemaking philosophy at Château Gruaud-Larose is deeply rooted in tradition, yet embraces modern techniques to enhance quality. The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested to select only the best fruit. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel and concrete vats, allowing for optimal extraction of flavours and tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels—typically around 18 months—resulting in a refined balance of fruit and oak character.

Château Gruaud-Larose wines are celebrated for their elegance, depth, and complexity. Known for their rich fruit flavours, velvety tannins, and distinctive minerality, they have a remarkable aging potential, making them highly sought after by wine collectors and enthusiasts alike. Notable vintages, such as 2005, 2009, and 2010, exemplify the estate's ability to produce wines of outstanding quality.

Under the stewardship of the estate's current owners, Château Gruaud-Larose continues to honour its heritage while exploring innovative practices, ensuring that it remains a beacon of excellence in the world of fine Bordeaux wines.