Region | |
---|---|
Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Left Bank > St Julien |
Colour | Red |
Type | Still |
An excellent effort, the 2011 Gloria continues the success this well-known property has enjoyed over the last several decades. A delicious concoction of red and black fruits, spice box, and earth as well as a silky textured, medium-bodied style emerge from this is an undeniable sleeper of the vintage. The round tannins, delicious fruit and forward character suggest it should be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years.
A blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot picked between 15th to 29th September and aged in 40% new oak, the Gloria 2011 has an intense bouquet of red and black fruit mixed with a ferrous scent that emerges only with 5-7 minutes aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with tensile tannins. It is a little pinched at the moment although it should blossom during its élevage as there is certainly good substance on the linear finish that exhibits a gentle grip. Fine. Tasted April 2012.
A wine with juicy blueberry and milk chocolate character. Medium to full body, with velvety tannins and a fresh finish. Round textured and satisfying.
This Chateau was created in the 1950's by the late Henri Martin who was also the regisseur of Chateau Latour. Consequently it does not appear in the 1855 classification but surely would if it were ever updated. Along with big brother Saint Pierre, the quality here has improved massively in the last few years and this is a top St Julien performer these days. 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot and 22% Merlot. 40% new oak. A good, deep colour here. There is lots of ripe black fruit, good spice, it is both serious and opulent wih good structure and balance. Proper Saint Julien. Impressive.
The nose is very tight and the black cherry that dominates the palate is backed by firm tannins. Cassis comes through towards the back giving a richer feel and although the tannins are very much in evidence they do not feel aggressive.
Jean-Louis Triaud reckons his 2011 is not far behind the quality of his 2009 and 2010 releases and I think he's right. Deeply coloured and very concentrated, with dense, textured tannins, smoky oak and sweet blackberry and liquorice notes that wouldn't look out of place in a Syrah, this is more structured than Gloria often is. 10+ years.
Fine aromatic blackcurrant nose, broad fruit with good weight, quite velvety tannins and good future. Drink 2015-2025
This estate continues to go from strength to strength. Another sleeper of the vintage, the 2011 is excellent, possibly outstanding. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by abundant aromas of cassis, forest floor, tobacco leaf and a vague hint of oak. Ripe for the vintage with excellent texture, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and a delicious, savory, broad appeal, this wine should drink well for at least a decade.
Kudos to Jean-Louis Triaud, who seems to be doing better with this estate and his neighboring St.-Pierre than his beloved Bordeaux football team.