2000 Château Gruaud-Larose - St.-Julien (1.5L)

A very strong effort for Gruaud Larose, possibly eclipsed by what they have done in 2009, this is a pure, full-bodied Gruaud Larose with plenty of new saddle leather, cedar wood, black currants, cherries, licorice, and Provencal herbs. Spicy, earthy, full-bodied, and rich, it has hit its plateau of full maturity, where it should stay for another 20 or more years.

This wine is black. Super aromas of licorice and tar, then violets. Full-bodied, with sleek and racy tannins. Very long finish. Best Gruaud ever? 95-100 points

The 2000 has beautiful, dense colour, very young, with great brilliance and clarity. An incredibly complex nose, showing very distinct notes of fresh fruit jam, slightly separated from the spices that strongly exhale the incredible fragrance that is so typical of the Domaine’s wines. Power and a lot of fruit in the mouth, which starts off full-bodied and well-rounded. Great substance, very refined, supporting the firm, tight tannins. A certain coolness asserts a good level of acidity. The overall effect is one of surprising aromatic intensity, both for the mouth and nose, that promises a radiant future ensemble for this wine of imposing stature.