Ch. Gruaud Larose (0.75 L)

NM: It has been a few years since I last tasted this vintage of Gruaud, one that I once acquired in quantities of -hundreds of cases- as a buyer for the Tokyo market – a quintessential Bordeaux claret for their burgeoning restaurant scene. Now at 19 years old, it remains a pretty if insubstantial Saint-Julien. The nose is light but nicely defined with faded dark plum, undergrowth and cigar box scents. The palate is well balanced with a leafy green edge one might expect for the vintage. It does lack complexity, whilst the finish is undeniably attenuated, and yet you cannot help feeling that a bottle served on the dining table would be polished off without complaint. Approach it for what it is and you will not be disappointed. Drink now. Tasted February 2013.