Viniou Reviews
Château Gruaud Larose 2019, in its Sarget cuvée, stands as a fine representative of Saint-Julien within the Médoc region of Bordeaux. This red blend is typically composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, and smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a warm and balanced growing season, displaying the hallmark ripeness and structure of the year. Vinification at Gruaud Larose is meticulous, with traditional fermentation in stainless steel vats followed by ageing in French oak barrels, a proportion of which are new, accentuating the wine's aromatic complexity and depth. The Sarget cuvée is crafted to be more approachable in its youth than the estate’s Grand Vin, yet still offers serious Médoc character: expect dark cassis and blackberry fruit layered with tobacco, cedar, subtle spice, and an elegantly earthy undertone.
Saint-Julien is often described as the most consistent and harmonious of the Médoc appellations. The region's gravelly soils, left by ancient riverbeds, are perfectly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, granting the wines both power and finesse. Saint-Julien’s proximity to the Gironde estuary creates a temperate maritime climate, moderating extremes and assisting in the slow, even ripening of grapes. The châteaux of Saint-Julien, though fewer in number than neighbouring appellations, have a storied history reaching back centuries, renowned for producing some of Bordeaux’s most reliable and ageworthy wines.
This cuvée's silky yet structured tannins and vibrant fruit profile make it exceedingly versatile at the table. Classic pairings include roast rack of lamb with rosemary, entrecôte à la Bordelaise (rib-eye steak in a rich red wine sauce), or duck breast with blackcurrant reduction. It will also pair beautifully with dishes featuring wild mushrooms, truffled potatoes, or earthy lentil stews. For a local touch, consider a Bordelais cheese such as Ossau-Iraty.
Serve at 16-18°C after decanting for around an hour, allowing the wine’s aromatic layers to unfold. Enjoy it now for its freshness and poise, or cellar for up to a decade to witness how Saint-Julien’s refinement evolves with time.
