Chateau Gruaud Larose 2012 Saint-Julien (75cl, 13.5%)

A Second Growth Saint-Julien Bordeaux from the 2012 vintage, bottled at 13.46% ABV in a 750ml bottle. The wine comes from a single contiguous vineyard block on deep red gravel, which the estate credits for consistent fruit character across production. The 2012 blend is 66.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 6.5% Petit Verdot, leaning into a classically structured, Cabernet-dominant style. The nose opens with tight, graphite-like intensity before dark cassis, blueberry and subtle floral notes, then earthy roasted herbs, white pepper and rosemary spice. The palate is round and medium-bodied, with blackberry, redcurrant and hazelnut undertones, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. The finish is authoritative, with slate minerality, aged beef and sappy graphite resolving into a clean, dry close.