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.

Introducing the 2012 Gruaud Larose, a Bordeaux Blend from the esteemed St Julien region in France. This red wine exudes elegance and sophistication, embodying the rich history and tradition of Bordeaux winemaking. With a deep, garnet color that hints at its complexity, this wine is a true masterpiece.

On the nose, the 2012 Gruaud Larose captivates with its enticing aromas of blueberry, blackberry, and delicate floral notes. As the wine opens up in the glass, hints of hazelnuts emerge, adding depth to the bouquet. It is a silky and fine red wine that promises a truly sensory experience.

Upon tasting, the wine reveals its full-bodied nature and integrated tannins. The palate is greeted with luscious flavors of ripe blueberries and blackberries, which are beautifully balanced by the wine's fresh finish. The persistence on the palate is remarkable, showcasing the wine's exceptional quality. While already enjoyable, this wine will continue to evolve and improve with further aging, reaching its peak around 2017.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage an impressive score of 93 points, praising its silkiness and fine character. Neal Martin's Wine Journal also lauded this wine, giving it a score of 92 points and describing it as a medium-term Gruaud Larose with a well-judged acidity and a sophisticated finish.

Wine Spectator awarded the 2012 Gruaud Larose a score of 90 points, noting its inviting nature and solid structure. Wine Enthusiast was equally impressed, giving it a score of 94 points and praising its spicy fruit, ripe blackberry flavors, and solid tannins.

Decanter described this wine as having a fine Cabernet Sauvignon cassis nose, showcasing the class, finesse, and deep fruit that Gruaud Larose is known for. Jane Anson, an esteemed wine critic, rated this vintage 92 points, highlighting its charming and finessed character, along with its redcurrant and raspberry fruit flavors.

Vinous also gave this wine a score of 92 points, noting its open nose with blackberry and cedar aromas. The palate was described as succulent and fleshy, with a pleasing long aftertaste. This wine represents one of the more drinkable options from the 2012 vintage in Saint-Julien.

Overall, the 2012 Gruaud Larose is a wine that exemplifies the excellence and artistry of Bordeaux winemaking. With its captivating aromas, balanced palate, and accolades from esteemed critics, this wine is a true gem that will delight wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.