Gruaud Larose Magnum 2005

Gruaud Larose 2005 is a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon-based red wine from the St-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. A classified St-Julien Second Growth, Château Gruaud Larose is a classic old-school Bordeaux. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, with a small percentage of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec rounding off the blend. The 2005 vintage is available here in magnum format. "Needs coaxing out of the glass, as is true with so many 2005s even at 16 years old, but straight off the first nose you get the most beautiful nuance and turmeric-strewn spice. It`s exotic if subtle, with a creamy texture, grilled oak, black chocolate shavings, cassis and raspberry, all with the most beautiful sense of tiptoeing through the palate, holding the line. Exceptionally well balanced, slate and smoked earth, giving signature St Julien finesse. You have really had to be patient for this wine, but it is utterly spellbinding, and starting to show its potential. Harvest September 20 to October 10. This one really does benefit from being carafed, because it keeps so much of itself hidden (I tasted it once in a carafe and once straight from the bottle). Brilliant, full of flavour. Harvest September 20 to October 11, 35% new oak." Jane Anson, 2021