Sarget de Gruaud Larose 2020

The tannins make their presence felt from the first moments, giving both depth and spice but also a certain constriction. This is not a year for exuberant second wines in St-Julien - there are well-framed black fruits, some fresh St-Julien balance, but a little sombre overall. 60% of overall production. Cabernet Franc 3% completes the blend. A yield of 31hl/ha. (Drink between 2024-2032)

The 2020 Sarget de Gruaud Larose initially has an attractive bouquet with cassis and touches of violet. It's slightly herbal in style, and this becomes more pronounced with aeration, fraying at the seams. The palate is medium-bodied with decent concentration on the entry and fine backbone, if just missing a little focus on the finish. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. (Drink between 2028-2045)