2014 Gruaud Larose (St-Julien)

Something has changed at this estate. The nose is more elegant and the wine is much better constituted, denser, but softer too on the palate with good presence on the finish. Fine tannins. 93 points

The 2014 Château Gruaud Larose is a blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot that was picked between September 24 and October 11 with the Petit Verdot. I was fermented in wooden and cement vats and is being aged in 40% new French oak. The bouquet unfolds nicely in the glass with blackberry, blueberry and cedar scents that are detailed and quite sensual. The new oak is a little more prominent than recent vintages but it is perfectly in sync with the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh and citrus-like on the entry, the tannin fine and lending this nascent Gruaud Larose fine precision and poise. This is a superb Saint Julien: fresh and with a satin-like texture. Everything is in place for a promising evolution. 91-93 points