Gruaud Larose 2003

The 2003 Gruaud Larose’s dark plum/garnet color is followed by sweet aromas of damp earth, forest floor, herbs, espresso roast, cassis, licorice, and plums. Medium-bodied as well as surprisingly up-front and precocious, it possesses sweet tannin, very nice concentration, and loads of earthy/herbal characteristics intermixed with black fruits, and an attractive, but supple, evolved finish. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. It does not rank alongside the top St.-Juliens.

The 2003 Gruaud Larose has a perfumed nose with cherries, boysenberry jam, confit-like scents, leather-bound books and a touch of cinnamon. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins for the vintage, slightly acetic, and not as complex as the aromatics suggest, with a distinct lack of weight and grip on the finish. While I appreciate the smoothness of this 2003, a better Gruaud would have been made under their current winemaker. Tasted at the château.

Aromas of blackberry, toasted oak, sweet tobacco and espresso. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, fruity finish. I like the texture. Best after 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 16,665 cases made.

Very lively and smooth and easy - even if not the most complex. Just a little green and scrawny on the end. (Average group score: 16)