Château Gruaud Larose 2008 is a second-growth Cru Classé red wine from the Saint-Julien appellation in Bordeaux, France. While 2008 was not a legendary vintage for Bordeaux, the Gruaud Larose from that year was praised by several wine critics (such as Robert Parker) as the estate's "most refined and outstanding vintage in the last eight years."
Wine Profile
- Region: AOC Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France.
- Classification: Second Growth (2ème Cru Classé) of the 1855 Bordeaux Classification.
- Grape Variety Ratio (approximately): 57–60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 7–8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, and a small amount of Malbec.
- Alcohol content: 13%.
- Soil and Terroir: 82 hectares of ancient Garonne gravel soil, with a subsoil of clay limestone.
- Aging Process: Aged for 16 months in French fine-grained oak barrels (approximately 50% replaced with new barrels annually).
Tasting Note
- Color: Deep purple with garnet red hues.
- Aroma: Primarily blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry, accompanied by notes of tobacco, cedar, licorice, and damp woodland earth.
- Palmistry: Medium to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a touch of sweetness, balanced acidity, good structure, and excellent aging potential.
- Serving Suggestions: Recommended to decant after opening. Pairs well with red meat, game (such as venison), or aged cheeses.
Ratings and Drinking Window
- Professional Ratings: CellarTracker community average score of approximately 91, Robert Parker gave it 90, and Jancis Robinson gave it 17/20.
- Current Drinking Status: Now fully in its optimal drinking window, tannins.
