2015 Château Gruaud Larose

The 2015 Gruaud Larose has an expressive nose, with mainly red fruit (raspberry and cranberry) mixed with cedar and light graphite scents. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins. This is fleshy compared to its peers and lightly spiced with a harmonious, very Saint-Julien finish. Recommended and at 13% alcohol, this is lower than many other Grand Cru Classé. Tasted blind at the 2015 Bordeaux Ten-Year-On tasting at Farr Vintners.

The 2015 Gruaud Larose is more luxurious on the nose than the previous vintage, with more red than black fruit, slightly medicinal and confit-like, wild strawberry and licorice, and later, touches of incense. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. This is more concentrated than the 2014, with a fine backbone, fresh and saline with a gentle grip towards the finish, and touches of cedar and graphite that linger on the aftertaste. This is just beginning to "motor". Tasted at the Gruaud Larose vertical at the château in February 2023.

60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc. Garnet hue. Lightly fragrant with red- and dark-fruit notes and a hint of vanilla oak. Attractive fruit and weight to the palate. Round and full but fresh as well. Tannins present but finely honed. Good length. Harmonious. (JL)