(66% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot and 6% petit verdot; 78 IPT; 14% alcohol; 50% new oak) Inky-purple. Intense aromas of cassis and dark plum are complicated by earthy underbrush. Very sweet and supple in the mouth, with a juicy quality to the bright red cherry, tobacco and mushroom flavors. Finishes with mounting but polished tannins and a hint of white pepper. This is a big wine that comes across as precise and pure, no small feat given its concentration. Yet another strong showing for Gruaud-Larose, following the excellent 2009. Should age very well: drink from 2018 through 2040.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Dark garnet/plum/purple, with loads of spice, earth, underbrush, red and black currants, licorice, and even a hint of Provencal garrigue, this full-bodied, tannic, masculine style of St.-Julien needs 5-6 years of cellaring, but is full, beefy, rich and impressively endowed. There are plenty of firm tannins in the background of this blockbuster wine, which has been built for the long haul. This is one 2010 where patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2040.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio