1973 Gruaud Larose
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Tasting notes
The 1973 Gruaud Larose, poured en magnum, is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. Although the wine was diluted by rain, the nose is not that bad, and there is much less evidence of rot than anticipated. It is just rather anonymous. The palate is medium-bodied and shows signs of dilution. It is drinkable if a little boring. Not a 1973 that I would be embarrassed about, although provenance played a role in maintaining what little freshness there ever was. Tasted in April 2013 at the "-3 vintage" vertical at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Soft and fruity, but fading badly, this wine has held together longer than I would have ever expected. It requires immediate drinking, but offers simple, straightforward, one-dimensional, washed-out flavors. Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline. Last tasted, 7/86.
Soft and fruity, but fading badly, this wine has held together longer than I would have ever expected. It requires immediate drinking, but offers simple, straightforward, one-dimensional, washed-out flavors. Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline. Last tasted, 7/86. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Ch. Gruaud Larose is a Second Growth estate in Saint-Julien, Bordeaux. It is often considered one of the best-value Left Bank estates, with the wines occasionally matching those of the First Growths.