Larose de Gruaud, Chateau Gruaud Larose, Saint-Julien

Seller: Mhilge 5

2001 Chateau Gruaud Larose

Notable critic Jane Anson recently completed a comprehensive retrospective of Gruaud Larose from 1995-2020. The slightly underrated 2001 vintage came out on top alongside the 2005, gaining 98 points and a lovely note. I purchased a case of this 2001 Gruaud, direct from their cellars as a 2023 ex-chateau release. I had the first bottle a few weeks ago and it was lovely. Gruaud Larose is one of Bordeaux’s great estates, known for its longevity and its complexity with age. Since its creation in 1725, Gruaud has very much been family-led and has become one of St Julien’s key producers. In the best vintages it can go toe-to-toe with the icons of the Medoc. An elite wine that stands shoulder to shoulder with Bordeaux’s very best, but at a fraction of the price. Coming straight from the chateau’s cellars, this is pristine stock, having never moved since bottling 20 years ago. Has been in temp controlled wine cellar since buying in 2023. Style: Medium- to full-bodied, elegant rather than massive. Aromas: Cassis, plum, black cherry, cedar, tobacco, earth, Asian spice and sometimes roasted or savoury notes. Palate: Silky, supple tannins with fresh acidity, restrained dark fruit and a lingering cedar-and-spice finish. Contemporary notes describe it as unusually accessible and plush for Gruaud-Larose. Maturity: Drink now through roughly the early-to-mid 2030s