CHATEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE 2eme Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2019 Bottle (losn)

Description

IN BRIEF
Château Gruaud-Larose 2019 is an impressive vintage from this esteemed 2ème Grand Cru Classé estate in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. Renowned for its commitment to quality, this wine features a blend predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, allowing for remarkable complexity and depth. The 2019 vintage displays a deep, inviting colour, with enticing aromas of dark fruits, including blackcurrant and blackberry, complemented by cedar and earthy undertones. Rated 96 points by both Vinous and Decanter, and 95+ points by The Wine Advocate, this full-bodied wine offers a refined tannin structure and refreshing acidity, making it an excellent pairing for roasted meats, game, and hearty dishes, while showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship of Château Lafite Rothschild.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Château Gruaud-Larose 2019 is an impressive vintage from this esteemed 2ème Grand Cru Classé estate located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, Gruaud-Larose consistently produces wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region, and the 2019 vintage is a testament to this excellence.

The blend for the 2019 Château Gruaud-Larose typically showcases a significant proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This carefully crafted blend allows the wine to develop complexity and depth, highlighting the characteristics of the vintage.

In the glass, the 2019 Gruaud-Larose presents a deep, vibrant colour, hinting at its richness and concentration. The nose is inviting, offering a bouquet of dark fruits such as blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum, complemented by aromas of cedar, tobacco, and earthy undertones. As the wine aerates, additional notes of graphite and subtle spices often emerge, adding to its aromatic complexity.

On the palate, the 2019 vintage is expected to be full-bodied and structured, with refined tannins that provide a silky mouthfeel. The prominent fruit flavours are beautifully balanced by a refreshing acidity, which brings vitality and elegance to the wine. Flavours of dark berries, mocha, and hints of vanilla create a layered and harmonious profile that lingers on the finish.

This vintage shows great aging potential, allowing it to evolve and develop further complexity over the next decade or more. It pairs exceptionally well with a range of dishes, including roasted meats, game, and rich sauces, enhancing the overall dining experience.

In summary, Château Gruaud-Larose 2019 is a remarkable wine that captures the legacy of this historic estate. With its captivating aromas, rich flavours, and elegant structure, it is a prized choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors, promising an exquisite tasting experience.

DECANTER 96 points
Tasted by: Georgina Hindle
(at Bordeaux, 05 Jan 2022)
Part of Bordeaux 2019 MW tasting: 20 top-scoring wines
Drinking Window: 2027 - 2045
A gorgeous dark purple colour in the glass with a bright pink rim. It is a little reticent on the nose, just giving a hint of fragranced fruit with dark chocolate, caramel and sweet coffee touches - so inviting. Ultra sleek and suave on the palate but at the same time racy and vibrant. A combination of rich black fruits and quite savoury aspects on the palate, tar, tobacco and wood smoke with black currants and cherries but here the emphasis really is on those herbal, medicinal aspects that give this such a serious tone but also such interest and intrigue. Lifted and bright on the palate but soft tannins letting the aromatics do all the talking. Seductive. Will be incredibly moreish in a few years.

VINOUS 96 points
The 2019 Gruaud-Larose has a cohesive, very harmonious bouquet with crushed stone and tobacco infusing the black fruit; cedar scents surfacing with further aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a succulent entry, sweeter than expected but not cloying, liquorice and touches of black pepper furnishing the long and quite decadent finish. One for the long haul. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. - Neal Martin

THE WINE ADVOCATE 95+ points
Reviewed by: William Kelley
Drink Date: 2027 - 2055
The 2019 Gruaud Larose is performing extremely well in bottle, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild berries and plums mingled with notions of licorice, potpourri, pencil shavings and subtle soil tones. Medium to full-bodied, elegant and seamless, with powdery tannins and succulent acids, it's remarkably suave and refined for a wine of obvious breadth, concentration and power.

JAMES SUCKLING 94 points
Attractive aromas of ripe dark and blue fruit, vanilla, dark chocolate, hazelnuts and wet soil. Dense and compact with layers of polished tannins that hold long and even on the palate. Firm finish with notes of chocolate and crushed stones. Pretty finish. Try after 2026.

-----

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.