2009 Château Gruaud Larose

The 2009 Gruaud Larose is far superior to the previous vintage; interestingly, the first vintage is based on only Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. There's much more fruit concentration here, with blackberry and raspberry laced with iodine and incense. It is cohesive, though not as complex as the bottle four years ago. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins, dark chocolate, sage and a long tail on the finish. There is an immediate attraction to this Gruaud Larose, though I suspect it will not get much better than it is now. (NM)

68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot. Garnet with a touch of brick at the rim. Fresh and fragrant with blackcurrant, blackberry and graphite notes. Builds on the palate, the fruit and tannins all in place. Really quite racy. Combines a subdued power and charm. (JL)

The 2009 Gruaud Larose has a fresh, backward, tightly coiled bouquet with ample blackberry and bilberry fruit, fine tension and focus, a nose that is intending to last the distance (and why not?) The palate is very well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and vibrant, laced-like tannin with a wonderfully detailed and persistent finish. This is some quality winemaking here and it is a wonderful 2009 Saint-Julien. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 2009 Bordeaux tasting.