CHÂTEAU GRUAUD LAROSE
BORDEAUX, FRANCE
Why Buy: The glorious wines in this grand Library Release, going back nearly 30 years, are ready-to-drink, aged in the cellars, and shipped direct to you from the estate ... with gems that include a 98-point 2020 (from an epic vintage for Bordeaux) and a 1995 that is showing a marvelous maturity and grace right now, to go along with Gruaud Larose’s signature intensity and depth. And remember, at its best the wines of Gruaud-Larose are Second Growth in name only – they drink like First Growths, and age like them, too. Add to that the fact that Gruaud-Larose represents some of the best values in all of Bordeaux, and that 98-pointer can be had for under $100 a bottle, and this is an offer you SIMPLY CANNOT MISS.
What They're Saying: The Gruaud Larose 2020 was the #25 wine on Wine Spectator's Top 100 list of 2023, and was awarded 98 points from Decanter, with Georgina Hindle raving: "Supremely elegant and excellently textured. Impressive complexity and drama here … A luminous wine I'd love to own."
Our Tasting Notes: A time capsule of what terroir and time can produce. The 1995 greets you with a refined elegance, its tannins now silky smooth, revealing layers of dried fruit and earthy complexity. The 2000, available only in magnum, is a powerhouse of flavor – concentrated yet remarkably balanced, and promising decades more evolution. The 2005 showcases the perfect marriage of power and finesse, with dark fruits mingling with notes of tobacco and spice. Finally, the 2020 – a wine of incredible promise, bursting with energy and precision, hinting at the greatness to come.
The Story: Château Gruaud-Larose is more than just a winery; it's a living piece of Bordeaux history. Founded in 1725 by knight Joseph Stanislaus Gruaud, this estate has weathered centuries of change, always emerging stronger. Its story is one of passion, perseverance, and a fierce and uncompromising commitment to quality. Perched on the highest plain of the Saint Julien plateau, Gruaud Larose benefits from a perfect confluence of terroir and tradition. The estate's vineyards, largely unchanged since the 1855 Classification, are a testament to the timeless nature of great winemaking.
The Specs: At the heart of Gruaud Larose's success is a meticulous approach to winemaking. The blend typically favors Cabernet Sauvignon, making up about two-thirds of the mix, with Merlot playing a strong supporting role. Smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec round out the blend, adding complexity and depth. The estate's high-elevation vineyards, with their ideal southeast exposure, are composed of gravelly soils interspersed with quartz, sand, and limestone. A significant clay content helps regulate temperature and water retention, crucial for developing the intense, concentrated grapes that Gruaud Larose is known for. In the cellar, tradition meets innovation. Temperature-controlled stainless steel vats allow for precise fermentation, while aging takes place in French oak barrels, with the percentage of new oak carefully calibrated to each vintage's character.
What to Pair Them With: The great versatility of Gruaud Larose makes it a sommelier's dream when it comes to matching flavors. These wines shine alongside classic Bordeaux pairings like roasted lamb or beef tenderloin. For a more adventurous pairing, try the younger vintages with a mushroom risotto or the older ones with slow-roasted game meats.
Fun Fact: Château Gruaud Larose has a unique way of connecting visitors with its terroir. The estate features a 21-meter-high wooden tower in the heart of its vineyards, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Médoc region. This architectural marvel, reminiscent of a lighthouse, allows wine enthusiasts to literally see the lay of the land that produces these exceptional wines.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2025). With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NY, or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Thursday, September 19th, 2024.