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2009 Gruaud Larose (Case of 12)
France, Bordeaux, Red
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£435.00 View prices in
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Gruaud Larose, St-Julien, Bordeaux
| Country: | France | | Region: | Bordeaux | | Appellation: | Saint-Julien | | Grower: | Gruaud Larose | | Colour: | Red | | Vintage: | 2009 |
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| Size: | BT (75cl) | | RP/WA: | 92-94+ | | Available: | In bond |
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Grape variety: 65% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot Tasting Notes: This is the finest Gruaud Larose since the 1990. Without a hint of brett in the 2009, it exhibits an opaque purple color along with a big, sweet nose of creme de cassis, new saddle leather, spice box, and boysenberries. Made in a rich, broad, savory, juicy style with lots of succulence, but none of the masculinity and ruggedness often found in this offering, this wine is loaded with concentration and extract. The tannins are largely concealed by the remarkable intensity of fruit and density. It should be drinkable in 7-8 years, and last for 30-40. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188)
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65% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot Cabernet Sauvignon:
 Despite being so prominent in the winemaking industry, the origins of this variety were shady up until the 1990s. Prior to this, many felt that the variety was ancient origin – perhaps even the Biturcia grape used to make ancient Roman wine. However, these romanticised and altogether dubious origins were placed on the shelf when DNA typing, undertaken by the UC David Department of Viticulture and Enology, determined that Cabernet Sauvignon was the offspring of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc – most probably due to a chance crossing in the 17th century.
Cabernet Sauvignon can grow in various different climates and soil types – in fact the wine usually gives a sense of the terroir in the taste. Naturally prone to vigorous yields, winemakers must be careful not to compromise the quality of the wine. Practices such as using less vigorous rootstock, green harvesting and aggressive pruning of grape clusters ensure lower yields.
This variety is most famously found in Bordeaux blends and thrives on the gravelly soils of the Medoc, being both well drained whilst also radiating heat to the vines. However, internationally varietals are very common – especially in warmer climates.
Merlot:
 Used for both blending and varietal wines, Merlot is the foremost grape in the Bordeaux. Merlot wines usually have a medium body with hints of berry, plum and currant. Its softness and fleshiness, combined with earlier ripening, makes Merlot a popular grape for blending with the sterner, later-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, with its higher tannin levels. Its name comes from the Occitan word “merlot” which means “young blackbird” – a nod towards the grape’s beautiful dark-blue colour. An offspring of Cabernet Franc (and therefore a sibling of Cabernet Sauvignon), it was first mentioned in 1784 where a labelled wine made from the grape attracted praise from all quarters.
The grape can easily be identified by its loose bunches of large, plump grapes. The colour is less or a blue/black hue than Cabernet Sauvignon and it has a thinner skin, with correspondingly fewer tannins. Pruning has a massive impact on the outcome of the wine, with reduced yields giving higher quality wine. Merlot has a propensity to quickly over ripen after hitting its initial ripeness level, sometimes in a matter of a few days. The renowned Chateau Petrus favours early picking to ensure acidity and ageing potential, while other growers favour late picking and the added fruitiness that comes with the additional ripeness of the fruit.
Merlot is now the most commonly grown grape in France, which claims two thirds of the world’s total Merlot cultivation.
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Jancis Robinson: Published : 07-Apr-2010. Dark crimson. Interesting leathery, almost Syrah-like notes. Very neat and satisfying. Savoury. Just a little austere on the finish. Drying tannins on the end. Very sweet. When to drink : 2016 to 2028.  Wine Spectator: Updated: April 15, 2010. Beautiful aromas of currant, black licorice and blueberry follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long, juicy finish. Big wine. Could be better than the classic 2000. —J.S. Stephen Tanzer: May/Jun 10. By Ian D'Agata. (a blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% merlot; 13.35% alcohol; pH 3.85; 76 IPT; 40% selection) Deep ruby. A very classic nose of cassis, cedar and smoky graphite is devoid of animal and earthy scents and conveys a sense of refinement rare for this wine. Then very smooth in the mouth, with excellent palate presence and sneaky concentration to its sweet, ripe black fruit and smoky peppery flavors. Lively, harmonious acidity leaves an impression of freshness on the long, dense finish, which features a touch of dried herbs and oaky torrefaction along with a trace of heat. As ripe and spicy as this is, it's an unusually graceful Gruaud Larose, one of this estate's most successful wines in memory. Call me fixated, but I can't help but think that making the grand vin from just 40% of the total crop has everything to do with the quality of this wine. It cannot be a coincidence that almost all of the best wines in '09 have this in common. Decanter: Steven Spurrier, Decanter.com, 17.5 pts - "Dense purple red, rich, robust warm autumn fruits, smooth and succulent, a touch of exotic spice, fine balance and length. Drink 2015-30." Chris Kissack, thewinedoctor.com, (March 2010), 17-18+/20 pts - "Another wonderfully vibrant youthful hue here. Well-framed fruit on the nose, dark, a touch smoky, with nice concentration suggested. Also some spicy fruit complexity. The palate has some good well-defined fruit, although in a slightly lush style. Very well integrated though, velvety tannins, but overall bright, vigorous and concentrated. Good sappy flavours on the finish. Fair length. Really good promise here, and possibly good value too." Neal Martin, erobertparker.com, 92-95pts - "Tasted at the château and the UGC. The crop was picked between 23rd September and 29th September for the Merlot and 2nd October to 17th October for the Cabernet Sauvignon. A blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot, this Gruaud has a tightly wound nose of black cherries, a touch of black plum and black truffle, good definition and with time some more exotic aromas: hints of honey and a little espresso. The palate is medium-bodied, very linear on the entry but displaying very good definition, with notes of blackberry, a touch of raspberry, espresso, a little white pepper and a meaty character. It expands very well towards the finish, maintaining excellent definition and clarity, very good poise, a biscuit element inflecting the pure black fruits, an insistent but gentle grip and great persistency. Somehow the 1982 is coming to mind, and that is a great thing. Tasted March 2010." Tim Atkin, www.timatkin.com, 95 pts - "Gruaud-Larose’s reputation as the most accessible of the major St Julien properties is well merited in 2009 because this is a deliciously approachable wine: scented and fragrant, with deep colour and smoky oak, plush cassis and plum fruit and fine-grained tannins. The wine has a minerally tightness at its core, which will enable it to age well in barrel and bottle. 15+ years." (Click here close this window)
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.jpg) Nestled between Pauillac and Margaux, the wines of Saint Julien are toned down in power compared to the robust produce of Pauillac while slightly less robust than those of Saint-Estephe. Saint Julien wines are balanced and incredibly aromatic. This is a product of the unique terroir – a layer of gravel that forces the roots of the vines to sink deeper to find nutrients, while also retaining heat to protect against the Oceanic climate.
Soils: Gravelly
Size: 900 hectares
Output: 6,500,000 bottles
Type of wine produced: Powerful reds
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
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Vintage Overview
A truly phenomenal year for the Left Bank, where the dominant, late-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon really flourished in the warm, dry climate. The softer, more alcoholic Merlot had less success on the Left Bank (with some growers finding themselves with 15.5% alcohol wines), but still enjoyed a fantastic year – 2009 really is about degrees of success, rather than hits or misses. However, if the Right Bank needed fine-tuning to achieve perfection, the Right Bank has it in spades:
“The finest 2009 left bank reds managed to be unequivocally Bordeaux - no "Napa Valley" or "New Worldy" in the tasting notes - while harnessing 2009's exceptional natural bounty: a dry, warm-but-not-scorching summer that lasted until mid-September when a downpour revitalised vines that were on the point of suffering from the prolonged drought. This was followed by another long, unusually fine period.” – Jancis Robinson, MW. Jancis Robinson wrote that “The perfect 2009 red bordeaux - and there are many of them, at all levels and from virtually all appellations - are exceptionally luscious and were an absolute delight to taste, but still have that quintessentially Girondin raciness, appetising quality, capacity to age and imprint of terroir that distinguishes the best of them from Cabernets, Merlots and Bordeaux blends produced elsewhere” adding also with respect to the top wines in particular..” I have never given so many really high scores when tasting en primeur anywhere..” "It may turn out to be the finest vintage I have tasted in 32 years of covering Bordeaux.” - Robert Parker (Click here close this window)
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Tasted single blind at Southwold. The nose is very closed - surly and backward. The palate is ripe, earthy with touches of black pepper. Firm tannins. Nice cohesion, backward and still unresolved, but with a nice austere finish that leaves the mouth fresh. Certainly a very good Pauillac, but nowhere near the First Growths! Drink 2011-2020. Tasted January 2009.
Wine Journal Jul 2009, Neal Martin 90
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
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Case of 12 |
£350.00 |
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90-92+ |
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This inky/purple-hued Margaux reveals aromas and flavors of blackberries, cassis, espresso roast, graphite, and new oak. Full-bodied, layered, and rich as well as elegant and precise, it needs 5-6 years of cellaring, and should last for 25-30+ years. It is a very strong effort from Kirwan. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
9 |
Case of 12 |
£375.00 |
ib |
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89-92 |
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The delicious 2009 Alter Ego de Palmer (an equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) could have been drunk when I tasted it. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by smoky blackberry and black currant fruit notes, and a silky smooth, expansive, hedonistic, pleasure-filled wine that should drink well for a decade. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc
Cellar & Drink: 2012, 2023
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
6 |
Case of 12 |
£449.00 |
ib |
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92-95 |
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Only time will tell whether the 2009, another great effort from Branaire, will eclipse the 2005 and 2003. Certainly at 13.6% alcohol it is the most powerful Branaire ever made, and the final blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot showcases what a great vintage 2009 is for Cabernet Sauvignon. An inky/blue/purple color is followed by raspberry, boysenberry, crushed rock, graphite, and floral notes, and an opaque, broad, dense, substantial, impressively structured wine without any hardness. It requires 4-5 years of cellaring, and should last four decades or more. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
5 |
Case of 12 |
£479.00 |
ib |
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93-95 |
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A great effort from the Becot family and their consultant, Jean Philippe Fort, the 2009 is a blend of 70% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. This is one of the highest-octane wines of St.-Emilion at 15% alcohol. Yields were very small (27 hectoliters per hectare) with the harvest taking place between October 10 and 14. The wine has an inky bluish/purple color and a big, powerful nose of raspberry confiture intermixed with crushed rock, licorice, and a very subtle hint of wood. A wine of enormous density, power, full-bodied richness and viscosity, it has good vibrancy and a boatload of tannin, but it is all seamlessly integrated in this colossal effort. Give it 3-5 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 30+ years. (Tasted four times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188)
70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine notes |
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
9 |
Case of 12 |
£480.00 |
ib |
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94-96* |
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The finest wine I have tasted from this estate in my 30+ - year career, the 2009 (64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot) from this hallowed vineyard in Leognan was cropped at 45 hectoliters per hectare and came in at 13% alcohol. It reveals an extraordinary, intense, pure, quintessential Domaine de Chevalier style, including silky tannin, dense plum, black currant, black cherry, floral, and graphite notes, terrific acidity, sweet tannin, and a full-bodied mouthfeel with no weight, but admirable precision and freshness. Consultant Stephane Derenoncourt has coaxed out all the elegance and complexity at this great site. A future legend in the making, this could be the best Domaine de Chevalier produced over the last half century. It should drink well for 35-40 years. (Tasted four times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
3 |
Case of 12 |
£515.00 |
ib |
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91-93 |
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I was surprised that this wine was not more concentrated given the overall character of the vintage, and I would rate it behind the 2005, 2000, 1990, and 1982. Nevertheless, it boasts this estate’s classic creme de cassis character as well as a soft, round, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, pure fruit, and silky tannins, but not the weight, depth, or profound concentration of the top 2009 Pauillacs. Still, this cuvee will be approachable young, and should evolve easily for two decades. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 80% cabernet sauvignon, 18% merlot, 2% cabernet franc
Wine notes |
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
4 |
Case of 12 |
£520.00 |
ib |
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92-94+ |
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This is the finest Bechevelle since the 1982. The opaque purple-hued 2009 displays beautiful floral notes intermixed with notions of black raspberries and creme de cassis. The fruit hits the palate with a medium to full-bodied richness, and the wine possesses sweet, velvety tannins, stunning purity, and a layered mouthfeel that builds incrementally, combining power, concentration, density, and elegance. This 2009 should hit its stride in 5-7 years, and last three decades or more. A beauty! (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
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BT (75cl) |
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£415.00 |
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94-96* |
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Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot
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2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
4 |
Case of 12 |
£110.00 |
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Consultant Jean-Luc Thunevin has produced the finest wine yet made at Clement Pichon, a vineyard at the southern end of the Medoc. The 2009 reveals exuberant black currant fruit intermixed with incense, spice box, roasted herbs, and Christmas fruitcake. Fleshy, medium to full-bodied, opulent, and impressively pure as well as textured, it should evolve easily for a decade or more. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188)
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Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
7 |
Case of 12 |
£183.00 |
ib |
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87-89 |
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It was surprising to find a hint of herbs in this 2009 Pauillac, but despite its progress over recent years, this classified growth can’t seem to get over the top. Attractive, elegant, crunchy, red and black currant notes emerge from this medium-bodied, dark ruby/purple-colored effort. Drink it over the next 15 years. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
7 |
Case of 12 |
£185.00 |
ib |
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Jancis Robinson: Published : 07-Apr-2010. Very deep crimson. Minerals and interest on the nose. Round and supple and really very gorgeous indeed. I like the lead-pencil character and the coolness. Very refreshing, A complete, fairly forward wine. Skilfully made and beautifully balanced. A very successful Desmirail! When to drink : 2016 to 2026.80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
8 |
Case of 12 |
£274.00 |
ib |
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Normally the proprietor at this estate refuses to let me taste, so I was surprised when he did so this year. The 2009 Durfort Vivens is an attractive, soft, velvety-textured wine revealing a hint of tapenade intermixed with black currant and blackberry fruit. Medium-bodied and elegant with the silkiness and precision that make this vintage so alluring, it should drink well for 15-20 years. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
2 |
Case of 12 |
£395.00 |
ib |
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90-93 |
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This estate had hail damage in mid-May, and yields were dramatically lower. One-hundred percent Merlot with 15% natural alcohol, there are more rustic tannins in this wine than normally, as this is usually a silky sexpot of a wine, voluptuous and opulent. This is certainly deep and rich, but it is a bit leaner and more austere than usual. The wine is full-bodied, powerful, but I do have a few lingering reservations about the type of tannins in the wine. (Tasted four times, inconsistent notes.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188)
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
8 |
Case of 12 |
£235.00 |
ib |
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90-93* |
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Possibly the finest wine yet produced at this estate, the 2009 is even fatter, richer, and more unctuously textured than the 2005 (which I loved). It boasts an opaque purple color, thrilling levels of sweet creme de cassis and blackberries along with hints of underbrush as well as forest floor, silky tannins, full body, and a plush, heady, opulent personality. This stunning wine should drink well for two decades. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
1 |
Case of 12 |
£319.00 |
ib |
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92-94 |
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This outstanding l’Arrosee is consistent with the Burgundian style that this terroir routinely produces. Never massive, at its best it offers intense flavors of kirsch, raspberry, crushed rock, and spice box. The full-bodied flavors are ethereal in their delicacy. Full, but stylish, precise, intense, and never heavy, this beauty can be drunk early or cellared for two decades or more. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet franc, 20% Cabernet sauvignon
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
4 |
Case of 12 |
£209.00 |
ib |
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90-92* |
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The best wine I have ever tasted from this estate, the oak seems to have been subdued, or maybe it is just that the fruit level is kicked up so high that the oak is not noticeable. That is certainly a characteristic of 2009. Dense purple in color, with hints of graphite, cigar box, creme de cassis, and subtle barbecue smoke, the wine is loaded, rich, opulent, medium to full-bodied, and a beautiful model of a wine that makes a few concessions to the modern style of Bordeaux but retains its Graves personality totally intact. It should drink well for 20-25 years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
8 |
Case of 12 |
£319.00 |
ib |
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92-94 |
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One of the most satisfying and popular wines among wine consumers in all of Bordeaux is Monbousquet, and even though it is not the best terroir, what Gerard and Chantal Perse have done with this property, which used to make wines that tasted like vegetal, watered-down Beaujolais, is remarkable. Yields in 2009 were 28 hectoliters per hectare, and the final blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon (the traditional blend here) tips the scales at 14.2% alcohol. Absolutely no new oak is showing, which is unusual for this wine, but that tells you how concentrated and textured the fruit is in this vintage. Dense ruby/purple to the rim, with plenty of exotic black fruits, jammy red fruits, some truffle, roasted herbs, and incense, the wine is full-bodied, luscious, exuberant, and opulent. It will be impossible to resist in its youth. This wine should drink well for 10-15 or more years, given the fact that a recently tasted 2000 was still an adolescent. (Tasted five times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
2 |
Case of 12 |
£409.00 |
ib |
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88-90+ |
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This consistently under-performing estate has made one of its finest wines in many years. The opaque ruby/purple-tinged 2009 offers up hints of toffee, caramelized red and black fruits, and spicy oak. Medium to full-bodied, soft, round, and generous with abundant glycerin, this beauty can be drunk over the next 10-15 years. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 75% merlot, 17% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet franc
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
22 |
Case of 12 |
£240.00 |
ib |
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90-92 |
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Like many of the top 2009s, Phelan-Segur is a huge, full-bodied effort with massive fruit as well as good freshness, precision, and elegance. This is all rather paradoxical given previous great vintages that either lean toward cooler vintage characteristics or hot ones. This 2009 possesses both styles. It exhibits lots of mulberry, boysenberry, and crushed, jammy black fruits, abundant tannin, medium to full body, an opulent mouthfeel, and enough structure to evolve for two decades or more. This is a sleeper of the vintage. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
11 |
Case of 12 |
£160.00 |
ib |
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89-91* |
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A sleeper of the vintage, the 2009 is probably the finest Potensac ever made, eclipsing even the stunning 1982. This blend, dominated by both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, hit 13.9% alcohol, but the pH is a normal 3.58. Dense, rich, and full-bodied with lots of freshness, the wine reveals abundant red and black currant fruit, a distinctive minerality, and a plush, full-bodied mouthfeel. It should drink well for 10-15+ years. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 48% merlot, 38% cabernet sauvignon and 14% cabernet franc
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
8 |
Case of 12 |
£328.00 |
ib |
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91-93 |
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Beautiful floral-infused black fruits jump from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple-colored wine. Possibly richer, denser, and even more complete than the brilliant 2005 (although it is still too early to say that definitively), this is certainly a more opulent, succulent style of wine than even the 2005, which had surprising flesh for a wine from that vintage. The Right Bank consultant Stephane Derenoncourt has performed some magic here, as recent vintages attest, and the wines are often fairly priced as well. This full-bodied Prieure-Lichine should drink well for 20-25 years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Sweet |
2009 |
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BT (75cl) |
28 |
Case of 12 |
£395.00 |
ib |
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95-97 |
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The minerality and stoniness really comes through on the nose of this Rieussec, more than the 2007. The palate is very well balanced with superb acidity, real tension, steely with great precision with notes of apricot, white peach and honey on the beautifully defined finish. Probably the best Rieussec since the astounding 2001.
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate Issue (188) 84.5% semillon, 11.5% sauvignon blanc, 4% muscadelle
Wine notes |
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| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
6 |
Case of 12 |
£275.00 |
ib |
|
91-93* |
|
| |
The best Rouget I have ever tasted, the 2009 displays terrific aromas of kirsch liqueur and loamy soil as well as a plump, fat, luscious personality. With sensational concentration and purity, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and an enormous fruit character, this beauty should drink well for 15 or more years. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) Merlot 85%, Cabernet Franc 15%
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
9 |
Case of 12 |
£195.00 |
ib |
|
87-88+ |
|
| |
Tannic and backward, the 2009 has a promising nose of floral-infused black currants, licorice, and earth. Medium-bodied, restrained, and very pure, this mid-weight Margaux needs 2-5 years and will keep for several decades. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot , 7% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
9 |
Case of 12 |
£125.00 |
ib |
|
90-92* |
|
| |
The finest La Bernadotte made to date, this 2009 is an undeniable sleeper of the vintage. Composed of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, it reveals a dense purple color along with a big, sweet kiss of black cherries, black currants, charcoal, and spice. With layers of fruit, decent acidity, freshness, and precision, and an opulent, fleshy, succulent style, it should drink easily for a decade or more. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
4 |
Case of 12 |
£595.00 |
ib |
|
92-94+ |
|
| |
Made in a very different style for this estate, the 2009 is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon (the highest I have ever seen here), 7% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, and achieved 13.8% natural alcohol. It is a big, rich, tannic, structured, dense ruby/purple-tinged wine offering a sweet kiss of creme de cassis, loamy soil, and spice box. Remarkably, despite the use of 100% new oak because of the 2009's power and intensity, there is not a hint of wood in either the aromatic or flavor profile. Never that showy from cask, this traditionally made St.-Estephe should be forgotten for 10-15 years, and drunk over the following 40-50 years. My rating is very conservative, and I expect it to rise considerably as this wine comes out of its infancy. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
1 |
Case of 12 |
£189.00 |
ib |
|
90-92 |
|
| |
The 2009 is the finest Chasse Spleen since the 1989. Its deep purple color is accompanied by notes of graphite, black currants, sweet spice, and a hint of Chinese black tea. Full-bodied and opulent with well-integrated acidity, tannin, wood, and alcohol, it is a lush beauty to enjoy over the next 20+ years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
5 |
Case of 12 |
£395.00 |
ib |
|
90-92+ |
|
| |
Despite the fact there is 44% Merlot in this wine (blended with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere), this is a tannic, structured, backward Clerc Milon, which is atypical for this estate. Perhaps I just caught it at a time when the structure was dominating. It is a deep ruby/purple-hued, concentrated, impressively endowed effort that requires serious cellar age, 4-5 years minimum. It should last for 20-25 years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 44% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Carmenere
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
7 |
Case of 12 |
£2,295.00 |
ib |
|
98-100* |
|
| |
The 2009 Cos d’Estournel is one of the greatest young wines I have ever tasted ... in the world! An extraordinary effort I tasted on two separate occasions, this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest primarily Merlot with a dollop of Cabernet Franc has a whopping 14.5% alcohol, but a remarkably normal pH of 3.69. Kudos to Jean-Guillaume Prats and owner Michel Reybier for this amazing wine made from yields of 33 hectoliters per hectare. It will be a legendary claret that should last for 50-60 years. A black/purple color is accompanied by aromas of graphite, ink, creme de cassis, blackberries, cedar, and incense. Full-bodied and unctuously textured, with an ethereal personality, tons of nuances, and a burgeoning complexity, it is an enormously well-endowed, fresh, perfectly balanced tour de force in winemaking. As mentioned above, it should drink well for 50-60 years. This wine possesses this vintage’s classic characteristics of enormous power, massive fruit, and extraordinary freshness and precision - largely unprecedented, particularly for Cabernet-based wines in the Medoc. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188)
65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
9 |
Case of 12 |
£480.00 |
ib |
|
94-96* |
|
| |
The finest wine I have tasted from this estate in my 30+ - year career, the 2009 (64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot) from this hallowed vineyard in Leognan was cropped at 45 hectoliters per hectare and came in at 13% alcohol. It reveals an extraordinary, intense, pure, quintessential Domaine de Chevalier style, including silky tannin, dense plum, black currant, black cherry, floral, and graphite notes, terrific acidity, sweet tannin, and a full-bodied mouthfeel with no weight, but admirable precision and freshness. Consultant Stephane Derenoncourt has coaxed out all the elegance and complexity at this great site. A future legend in the making, this could be the best Domaine de Chevalier produced over the last half century. It should drink well for 35-40 years. (Tasted four times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
3 |
Case of 12 |
£2,195.00 |
ib |
|
96-100* |
|
| |
The prodigious 2009 l’Evangile may be the greatest wine made at this estate during my 30+ years of tasting Bordeaux. Yields were 39 hectoliters per hectare, and the harvest was relatively long, with everything being picked at perfect maturity between September 11 and October 7. The estate is doing malolactic in barrel (a la Burgundy), and the final blend (95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc) achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. Amazingly, this cuvee is aged in 100% new oak barrels, yet no oak is present in the aromas or flavors. Readers should think of it as a better, richer, fuller, more alcoholic version of the 1982 l’Evangile. Dense, full-bodied, and opaque purple-hued, it boasts an extraordinary bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, and boysenberries. A blue and black mountain fruit character suggests coolness, but an intensity and voluptuous texture present the paradox of 2009. The wine has all the characteristics of a hot vintage in terms of power, texture, and richness as well as elements of a cool vintage in its precision, elegance, freshness, and vibrancy. Make no mistake about it, this is an enormous wine that is incredible to taste. Frankly, I could have drunk the entire barrel sample if it hadn’t been my first appointment of the day (at 8:15 a.m.)! This wine should drink well for 30-40 years. Bravo! (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
|
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
3 |
Case of 12 |
£515.00 |
ib |
|
91-93 |
|
| |
I was surprised that this wine was not more concentrated given the overall character of the vintage, and I would rate it behind the 2005, 2000, 1990, and 1982. Nevertheless, it boasts this estate’s classic creme de cassis character as well as a soft, round, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, pure fruit, and silky tannins, but not the weight, depth, or profound concentration of the top 2009 Pauillacs. Still, this cuvee will be approachable young, and should evolve easily for two decades. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 80% cabernet sauvignon, 18% merlot, 2% cabernet franc
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
23 |
Case of 12 |
£310.00 |
ib |
|
91-93* |
|
| |
Perhaps the finest Lafon Rochet ever made, the purity, freshness, and sweet, rich, blueberry and boysenberry fruit and hint of pen ink that are found in this opaque purple-colored wine are impressive. Massive in the mouth, with freshness, delineation, and sweet tannin, it is a major sleeper of the vintage that should last for 25+ years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
16 |
Case of 12 |
£99.00 |
ib |
|
90-92 |
|
| |
Generally a St.-Julien/Pauillac-like offering, the 2009 Lanessan seems more explosive and concentrated than prior vintages. I’m not sure it is the finest I have ever tasted, but it boasts a dense purple color as well as copious creme de cassis, cedar wood, underbrush, and spice notes. Beautiful opulence, silky tannins, and a long finish suggest this sleeper of the vintage will drink well for 2-3 decades. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 60% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Francs, 5% Petit-Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
15 |
Case of 12 |
£195.00 |
ib |
|
91-93* |
|
| |
Juicy red currant with subtle smoked herbs, truffle, and spice box jump from the glass of this dense ruby/purple-colored wine. Possessing silky tannins, seductive, ripe fruit with an opulent texture and no hard edges, but serious tannin lurking behind the wealth of fruit and glycerin, this is another classic Pessac-Leognan that can be drunk young or cellared for 20-25 years. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
7 |
Case of 12 |
£375.00 |
ib |
|
90-92 |
|
| |
This ethereal, lighter-styled 2009 (no doubt because of the high Cabernet Franc content) is somewhat difficult to fully evaluate at this stage, but it exhibits beautifully sweet, pure, blue and red fruits (raspberries) in a medium-bodied format. The wine is sublime in its softness, finesse, and delicacy. It should put on weight and perform even better in a year or two, and should drink nicely for 15+ years. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
1 |
Case of 12 |
£635.00 |
ib |
|
95-97 |
|
| |
It-s going to take a lot for this wine to equal or eclipse the 2005, but it is a different style of wine. While the 2005 is slightly more structured, with more aggressive tannin, this has more fat, texture, and more tactile magnetism going for it. I suppose the best thing is to own both. Opaque ruby/purple, with a beautiful nose of charcoal, forest floor, and black fruits, the wine hits the palate with great intensity, a sumptuous texture, yet brilliant precision and purity. This is a superb wine that should drink well for 20-25 years. (Tasted three times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot , 8% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
5 |
Case of 12 |
£7,280.00 |
ib |
|
96-98+ |
|
| |
This is the most backward and unevolved of all the Left Bank (Medoc) first-growths. In 10-20 years, the 2009 Mouton Rothschild should rank alongside the greatest vintages of the last three decades (1986 and 1982). Yields were a small 30 hectoliters per hectare, the final blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Merlot, and the finished alcohol is 13.2% (not particularly high in this vintage). The pH is 3.81, and the index of tannins, the highest ever measured, a whopping 20% higher than the next highest vintage. The tannins, while present, are silky and well-integrated, one of the hallmarks of the 2009 vintage. An inky/purple color is accompanied by classic aromas of creme de cassis, violets, and hints of graphite and background oak. The overwhelming impression is one of layer upon layer of fruit, full-bodied opulence, and good structure. It tastes as if it were 2-3 months old rather than a post-malolactic, fully assembled barrel sample ... it’s that young, but so incredibly promising. A 50- to 100-year wine? Probably. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
8 |
Case of 12 |
£2,290.00 |
ib |
|
94-96 |
|
| |
The black/purple-colored 2009 Palmer exhibits a level of tannin that exceeds anything they have previously produced. The final blend is 52% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Petit Verdot, and the finished alcohol is 13.9%. It is hard to say this 2009 will turn out better than Palmer’s extraordinary 2005, but it certainly will be different in style given the alcohol level and power of this vintage. Pure blackberry and black currant fruit notes intermixed with hints of incense, graphite, and wood are followed by an opulent, thick, juicy wine with plenty of structure, and enormous concentration, mass, and length. Four to five years of patience is required, but this beauty should last for three decades or more. (Tasted once.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 52% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
3 |
Case of 12 |
£294.00 |
ib |
|
90-92+ |
|
| |
Ferocious tannins are not unusual for Sociando Mallet, but I was surprised that in a vintage that produced exceptionally tannic, but ripe wines, the Sociando Mallet tannins were atypically austere. Nevertheless, the wine boasts huge concentration along with an inky/purple color, a full-bodied, powerful palate, and a long finish. Excellent purity, density, and minerality are present in this cuvee, and it is capable of lasting 30-40 years. This estate is situated on some of the finest terroir of the Haut-Medoc, near Calon-Segur in St.-Estephe. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
14 |
Case of 12 |
£380.00 |
ib |
|
92-94 |
|
| |
This is the most impressive Talbot since the 1982 and 1986. It reveals an opaque plum/garnet/purple color as well as knock-out aromas of black fruits, cedar, incense, licorice, and a Provencal garrigue-like character. Substantial, sexy, and seductive, it is almost slutty in its exuberance and ostentatiousness. It was a thrill to drink this loaded St.-Julien. It should offer irresistible drinking over the next 20-25 years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc
Wine notes |
|
| + |
Bordeaux |
Red |
2009 |
|
BT (75cl) |
2 |
Case of 12 |
£165.00 |
ib |
|
91-93* |
|
| |
One of the stars of Canon-Fronsac, this 30-acre vineyard is making some great wine, and the 2009 appears to be the finest they have yet produced. The Dutch owners brought in Stephane Derenoncourt as consultant, and the 2009 (98% Merlot and 2% Malbec) tips the scales at 14.5% natural alcohol. Full-bodied with an inky/blue/purple color it represents the essence of blackberries, black raspberries, cassis, licorice, crushed rocks, and subtle oak. The high alcohol and all evidence of oak aging are completely buried under the sheer concentration (in this case coming from low yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare). A big time sleeper of the vintage, it should age effortlessly for 25-30 years. (Tasted two times.)
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (188) 98% Merlot, 2% Malbec
Wine notes |
|
|
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