1996 Chateau Gruaud-Larose, Saint-Julien, Bottle (750ml)

Robert Parker writes, "In the bottle, Gruaud Larose appears to have returned to the form it possessed when I first tasted it from cask - a stylish, surprisingly civilized, medium-bodied wine without the muscle and power expected from both this terroir and vintage. It still possesses excellent density, as well as roasted herb, licorice, and black currant flavors intermixed with incense-like smells. The wine is medium to full-bodied, pure, rich, and forward." Published: Apr 22, 1999

"First tasted blind in April 2002 when the nose soared from the glass with notes of ripe cranberry and liquorice. Quite refined and elegant, but with a chewy finish. Another bottle at the Gruaud vertical was very impressive. A deep garnet core with dark ruby rim. A dense liquoricey nose with notes of blueberry that needs aeration in the glass to show its character. The palate has a dense core of ripe Cabernet, a little tough this time with notes of burnt toast and cigar-box. Very typical of the vintage: broody and masculine. Traditional claret. Impressive. Needs another 5-8 years. (92-94) Last tasted blind at Farr's horizontal and a frustratingly different bottle, much less opulent in style. A lifted smokey, tobacco nose. Leafy. Very classic with good definition. The palate has layers of sweet red fruits, strawberry and cherry. Feminine, lifted but lacking real weight. Very linear on the finish but good grip. Leave for 3-4 years. (86) although on reflection that was a bit mean! Tasted September 2006." NM for WJ Published: Dec 31, 1999