Château Gruaud Larose Cordier Grand Cru Classé (1981)

About this wine

The 1981 Château Gruaud Larose from Saint-Julien presents a deep garnet hue, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it offers a blend of dried red fruits, prunes, and subtle cocoa notes. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins that have softened over time, providing a smooth texture. This vintage showcases the estate's commitment to producing age-worthy wines that evolve gracefully over decades. Château Gruaud Larose, classified as a Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, has a history dating back to 1725, reflecting its longstanding tradition of quality winemaking.

About the grape

Château Gruaud Larose, located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, cultivates a blend of grape varieties that contribute to its renowned wines. The vineyard is planted with approximately 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape, thrives in the estate's gravelly soils, providing structure and aging potential. Merlot adds softness and roundness, balancing the wine's profile. Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity, while Petit Verdot contributes deep color and spice. This combination of grape varieties, cultivated in the unique terroir of Château Gruaud Larose, results in wines celebrated for their depth and elegance.

Quick facts

• 🏰 Château Gruaud Larose was established in 1725 by Joseph Stanislas Gruaud, who combined several small vineyards into one large estate.
• 👑 The estate's motto, 'Le Roi des Vins, le Vin des Rois' ('The King of Wines, the Wine of Kings'), reflects its esteemed reputation.
• 🥈 In 1855, Château Gruaud Larose was classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification.
• 🍇 The vineyard spans 82 hectares and is planted with 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot.
• 🍷 The 1981 vintage of Château Gruaud Larose is noted for its elegant style, offering a delightful drinking experience even decades later.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Gruaud Larose, established in 1725 by Joseph Stanislas Gruaud, is a historic winery located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France. The estate was later inherited by his nephew, Chevalier de Larose, who expanded its reputation. In 1855, it was classified as a Second Growth in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification, recognizing its exceptional quality. The Merlaut family acquired the château in 1997 and has since implemented organic and biodynamic farming practices, achieving organic certification in 2022. Notably, the estate features a distinctive tower built in 1740, originally used to signal the quality of the harvest to potential buyers.