Grape Variety: 57% Cabernet, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet-Franc

Growing Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France

Consultant Winemaker: Eric Boissenot

TASTING NOTE:
The team at Gruaud-Larose works with a combination mechanical and hand viticultural vineyard manager, along with organic fertilisation, careful use of leaf thinning, removal of excess buds and shoots, and also green harvest. They also work hard on the height of the trellising of the vines that now average 45 years of age, for maximum flavour and character development. They perform hand harvesting, with a double selection process in both the vineyard and winery reception.

Fermentation took place in a combination of cement and wood (thermo-regulated tanks). The cap was pumped over twice daily during fermentation, and then maceration occurred for approximately 20-26 days at adapted temperatures and according to the tasting. Then the wine was aged for 16 months in fine grained, medium toast French oak barrels, renewed by 50% every year to enhance the fruit.

In the glass you have a brilliant, deep dark red colour with a slight violet hue. The wine is showing a floral nose with ripe blackcurrants, summer berries, with subtle pepper and spice notes. On the palate you have rich dark fruits, chocolate and hazelnut characters along with firm balanced tannins Chocolate and hazelnut. The mouth feel have good complexity and texture and a long and lingering silky smooth finish. The wine is still youthful and slightly shy but clearly shows all is fine personality and further ageing potential. Decant for 45 minutes and serve in a full-size glass at 17-18C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking well this coming season; though will repay another 7-8 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with prime meats, game, cured meats and hard cheese, enjoy.

An approachable, quality Bordeaux blend.