2023 Sarget de Gruaud Larose (St-Julien)

Vivid iris colour, floral aromatics, a little subdued on the opening notes, touches of tar, blueberry and raspberry fruits, and edges of tobacco leaf and cocoa bean, enjoyable. Harvest September 11 to October 3, 15% new oak for 12 months. 42hl/h yield. 90 points

The 2023 Sarget de Gruaud Larose is a pretty serious second wine. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, spice and mocha are all front and center. The presence of the fruit here is alluring. Soft, plush contours wrap it all together in style. I very much like the depth here. 90-92 points

The 2023 Sarget de Gruaud Larose, matured in 15% new oak, displays a deep purple hue. The nose is quite `punchy` for a Deuxième Vin, with plenty of black cherries, iodine and light cedar scents. The palate is medium-bodied with a structured, slightly chewy entry, licorice-infused black fruit and firm grip; there is a bullishness about this Sarget, so afford it a couple of years before pulling the cork. 86-88 points