Chateau Gruaud Larose 2018

Château Gruaud Larose Deuxieme Cru Classe, Saint Julien, Bordeaux, France, 2018

Grape blend: 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. Yield 34hl/ha. 82ha planted on gravel soils with part of the vineyards now run on biodynamic principles. 46 year old average vine age. 18 - 24 months in French oak barrels (80% new, the rest 1-2 years old).

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"This is really generous and rolls off the tongue with ripe and velvety tannins and a fresh undertone. Full-bodied, firm and silky. Extremely long and flavorful. Very complex already."

(95-96/100) points, James Suckling, 2019

"The 2018 Gruaud Larose has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It comes barreling out of the glass with powerful scents of blackberry preserves, baked plums and crème de cassis plus hints of fruitcake, Indian spices and tobacco leaf. The medium to full-bodied palate offers bags of baked berries flavors and a chewy texture with just enough freshness, finishing spicy. Judging by the slightly rustic tannins and suggestions of dried berry characters, I'm guessing the heat and drought had an impact this year. This said, the wine is very well crafted and delicious right now, although a good 3-4 years in bottle should soften the tannins and bring out further nuances."

92/100 points, Lisa perrotti-Brown, WINE ADVOCATE, March 2021