Gruaud Larose

1989 Gruaud Larose Gruaud Larose

  • Classification:
    2nd growth
  • Color:
    Red
  • Appellation:
    Saint Julien
  • Volume:
    0.75L
  • Grape Type:
    Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
  • Packaging:
    Loose
  • Stock Location:
    France
€196
Wine Critics Notes:

Vinous - Score: 90 (43282)

The 1989 Gruaud Larose is a wine that I have tasted a dozen or so times since back in 2001, most recently in 2012. The bottle was poured against several Californian wines that might be unfair, however, I do feel that this vintage has maybe peaked several years ago. Here it was well defined on the nose as usual, with scents of undergrowth, sandalwood and a touch of sage. It certainly lacks the joie-de-vivre that I expect. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin, nicely judged acidity and quite compact black fruit, though this is a little more staid than before, certainly lacking the flamboyance of the 1990 Gruaud (for example). It is a thoroughly decent Gruaud that just fails to engage the same way as previous examples. Tasted over dinner at Chez Bruce.