2012 Gruaud Larose

The 2012 Gruaud Larose is perhaps even more austere than the previous vintage. It shows tobacco and cigar smoke and touches of autumn leaves, but it (again) needs more fruit concentration. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit and fine acidity. It's a bit conservative compared to its peers, but like the previous vintage, it finishes positively with freshness and insistent grip, plus a fine black pepper note on the aftertaste. Drink now and over the next decade. Tasted at the Gruaud Larose vertical at the château in February 2023.

67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc. Pale garnet with brick at the rim. Light and easy on the nose. Red fruit with a leafy note. Supple and sweet on attack but then fades. Slightly drying finish. Unlikely to improve further. (JL)

The 2012 Gruaud Larose has an open nose with blackberry, briary, cedar aromas and just a slight minty character that emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins, fleshy and grippy, quite sweet towards the sensual finish with a pleasing long aftertaste. There is a roundness and uncommon plumpness for a 2012 Saint-Julien, and as such, it represents one of the appellation's more drinkable wines at this stage. Tasted twice at Bordeaux Index's Ten Year-On tasting and blind at the Southwold Ten-Year On tasting.