1999 Gruaud Larose Bordeaux Blend

Bordeaux Blend - 750ML
Reg: $159.94
$139.94
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REVIEWS

JA 91 WS 90
JA 91

janeanson.com, November 2021

A difficult vintage with a promising summer, but with rain at harvest. This majors black fruits, from bilberry, loganberry to blackberry, that have softened over the past 22 years but remain subdued, with an earthy...
WS 90

Wine Spectator, March 2002

Well done. Good dark color to this '99 with lots of plummy berry and cassis character. It's medium- to full-bodied with fine tannins and a medium finish...

WINE DETAILS

Color & Type Red
Varietal Bordeaux Blend
Country France
Region Bordeaux
Sub-region St Julien
Vintage 1999
Size 750ML
Percent alcohol 13%
Closure Cork

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 1999 Gruaud Larose is a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the renowned region of St Julien in Bordeaux, France. This red wine showcases the expertise of the esteemed producer, Gruaud Larose, and embodies the essence of the terroir.

In the glass, this wine exhibits a deep, dark color that is visually striking. Its enticing hue sets the stage for the complex aromas and flavors that await. On the nose, one is greeted with an abundance of plummy berry and cassis character. These enticing notes create a captivating aroma that lures you further into the glass.

As you take your first sip, the medium- to full-bodied nature of this wine becomes apparent. The fine tannins provide a smooth and velvety texture that coats the palate with elegance. The flavors of black fruits take center stage, ranging from bilberry and loganberry to blackberry. These fruits have softened over the past 22 years, yet they retain a subdued nature that adds depth and complexity.

The 1999 Gruaud Larose also exhibits an earthy quality, accompanied by nuances of raspberry leaf, bay, cèpes, and undergrowth. These savory elements add layers of intrigue to the wine, creating a multi-dimensional taste experience. The finish is medium in length, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Despite the challenges faced during the vintage, including rain at harvest, this wine shines with its remarkable quality. It showcases the classic St Julien mint leaf freshness, which adds a refreshing touch to the overall profile. The juicy minerality further enhances the complexity, making each sip a delightful journey.

Aged in 35% new oak, this wine has benefited from careful maturation, allowing its flavors to harmonize and evolve over time. With an alcohol percentage of 13.0, it strikes a perfect balance between power and finesse.

The 1999 Gruaud Larose is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Bordeaux winemaking. It is a wine that demands attention and appreciation, inviting wine enthusiasts to savor its rich flavors and unravel its intricate layers.