Chateau Gruaud Larose, 1986 Red Wine
St Julien 2nd Growth Classification
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 12%
Price:
£159.00
Out of stock
Description
From the outstanding 1986 Vintage and scoring 94 Points (Parker)
"There seems to be no doubt about the quality of the 1986 Gruaud-Larose, which in 20 years should rival the extraordinary 1990, 1982, 1961, 1949, and 1928 made at this vast estate. From the first time I tasted this wine in cask, I have thought it to be among the blockbusters of the vintage. It has a black/purple color, mammoth structure, a fabulous wealth of fruit, and a finish that seems to last several minutes. This is indeed first-growth quality, but then, when, in the last decade, has a Gruaud-Larose not matched the quality of the first-growths? Given the enormous structure, impressive concentration, and massive tannins, one must wonder when this wine will be ready to drink. That may preclude a number of consumers from actually deciding to buy it. For many readers, this is probably a wine to lay down for their children, rather than for them to realistically consider drinking in their own lifetimes. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2030." Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, 1998
"Deep garnet core with youthful rim, certainly compared to the 1985. A very Cabernet nose, almost Pauillac in style with pencil shavings, cedar, a touch of blueberry and a hint of cold black tea in the background. The palate is typical of the vintage: masculine, tannic, a little reserved and yet very well balanced and easing off in the middle to finish with a lovely cedar, tar, dates and spice. Full of vigour, full of the breeding of a fine Saint Julien. Drink 2009-2030." Neil Martin Wine Journal.2008
Condition
Good level - label slightly bin soiled