Saint Julien

The 2018 Gruaud Larose is a blend dominated by 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by 24% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. It has a pH of 3.88 and an alcohol content of 14.2%. This wine exhibits a deep garnet-purple color and a captivating aromatic profile of black cherries, mulberries, plum preserves, and blackcurrant cordial. Subtle notes of menthol, lilacs, licorice, and cloves intermingle with hints of fallen leaves and tilled soil. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a firm, muscular structure and densely packed ripe fruit. The tannins are ripe and grainy, and the wine maintains freshness throughout. The finish is long and spicy. Château Gruaud-Larose practices integrated pest control, organic fertilization, and employs a weather station for phytosanitary protection. Prophylactic measures like leaf thinning, bud and shoot removal, and green harvest are taken. Trellises are heightened, and manual harvesting with belt selection and double sorting is done. The entire surface is managed organically and biodynamically. The harvest undergoes a double reception and weighing. Plot selection is done based on grape variety, terroir, and age. The wine is fermented in a combination of 50% wood and 50% thermo-regulated cement tanks. Yeast is added, and fermentation temperatures are maintained between 24°C - 26°C. Daily tasting of each tank is performed. The maceration period after fermentation involves working on the lees in the grape-pomace. Three vertical presses are used, and the press wine is immediately transferred to barrels. Tasting and selection of three press wines among the barrels are done. The wine undergoes alcoholic fermentation and co-inoculation. It is then aged for 18 - 24 months in French oak barrels, with 80% new barrels and the remaining 1-2 years old. ABV 14.5%