2021 Sarget de Gruaud Larose (St-Julien)

The 2021 Sarget de Gruaud Larose is an attractive wine in the making, exhibiting aromas of sweet berries, cherries and spices, followed by a medium-bodied, ample and fleshy palate that`s pure and lively, concluding with a saline finish. It`s a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. 87-89 points

The 2021 Sarget de Gruaud Larose was raised in 15% new oak for a planned 15 months. It shows fine lift and commendable precision on a nose of blackberry and briary fruit. The palate is malleable on the entry and well balanced, displaying a touch of black pepper and gentle grip toward the finish. Considering the growing season, this Deuxième Vin deserves a round of applause. Frankly, it`s not that far off the quality of the Grand Vin. 89-91 points

Cabernet Sauvignon was unquestionably the grape of the vintage in the Médoc, and here you see its success in a 2nd wine. Harvest September 23 through to Otober 7. Ruby red colour, with lovely violet edging, clear birght fruits, tasty blueberry and redcurrant, cool vintage character but juicy and blalanced, and moreish. There was frost here on the Sarget plots, giving overall yields of 29hl/h. Final year of organic conversion. 89 points