Chateau Gruaud Larose was established in the 18th century in the commune of Saint-Julien, when Joseph Stanislas Gruaud united three of his estates under the name of “Fonbedeau”, also called Gruaud. He left the property upon his death to Monsieur de Larose, and in 1781 the name of the new owner was added to that of its predecessor.

When Monsieur de Larose died, the estate was divided among his heirs and the property was split into separate estates. Desire Cordier bought the first two shares, and in 1935 bought the last remaining estate. The property was then reconstituted covering 137 hectares of which 68 are under vine. The company changed hands in 1982, 1993, and again in 1997, when the Merlaut family, already owners of several Medoc cru estates, bought Gruaud Larose.

Today, the Gruaud Larose vineyard is composed of the noble Bordeaux varieties, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (7%) and Petit Verdot (3%). The average age of the vines of Gruaud Larose is about forty years, although the most ancient of these are nearly 100 years old.

This is a classic style from the Saint Julien appellation which was ranked a second growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. The vines are planted on 82 hectares of Garonne gravel. Grapes are handpicked and matured for 16-18 months in French, fine grain, oak barrels. Annual production of the grand vin averages around 150,000 bottles.

The 1996 Gruaud Larose is a remarkable Bordeaux Blend that embodies the elegance and sophistication of the St Julien region in France. With a deep red color that exudes richness, this wine is a true gem for connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Upon first glance, the wine captures your attention with its enticing image. The label is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that went into producing this exquisite vintage. The deep red hues of the wine are reflected in the label, creating a visual harmony that hints at the beauty within.

On the nose, the aromas are intoxicating. Notes of autumnal cassis and bilberry fruits rise from the glass, intertwined with hints of tobacco and smoked earth. The complexity of this wine is evident, with layers of black truffles and olive tapenade adding depth and intrigue.

The 1996 Gruaud Larose is a wine that demands patience and respect. Although it is already 25 years old, it retains a firm structure that suggests it has many more years of aging potential. Decanting is recommended to allow the oxygen to soften the tannins and reveal the full beauty of this wine. However, it is important not to wait too long, as there is already a remarkable level of beauty present.

This vintage was crafted with precision and care, with a blend that favored Cabernet Sauvignon, resulting in a wine of exceptional quality. The grapes were harvested from September 20 to October 10, capturing the essence of the terroir and the unique characteristics of the region. The wine was aged in 35% new oak barrels, adding a subtle touch of oak influence to the final product.

In conclusion, the 1996 Gruaud Larose is a wine that exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of Bordeaux. With its complex aromas, firm structure, and undeniable beauty, it is a wine that will leave a lasting impression on any wine enthusiast fortunate enough to experience it.