2020 Chateau Gruaud Larose Grand Cru Classe "Saint-Julien"

CLIMATE

The winter was very rainy, with temperatures in February and March below the last thirty year averages. The spring was also rainy, but was still in average temperatures. This wet weather continued until the end of June, causing heavy attacks of downy mildew on the vineyard. Fortunately, hot dry weather arrived in July and continued until the harvests which took place in optimal conditions. The abundant aquifers have favored the development of the vine allowing to have perfect conditions throughout the phenological stages. This explains the great wealth of the vintage and its opulence! A great vintage.

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 61%, Merlot 29%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Petit Verdot 3%

Alcohol: 14.2°

Total acidity: 3

Harvest Reception: Double reception of harvest and weighing of the crop. Plot selection in the tank (grape variety, terroir, age, …)

Tanks: 50% wood | 50% cement (thermo-regulated tanks)

Alcohol Fermentation: Yeast addition | Fermentation temperatures: 24°C - 26°C | Daily tasting of each tank

Maceration: 20 - 30 days at adapted temperatures | Work on the lees in the grape-pomace during the maceration period after fermentation

Pressings: 3 vertical presses | Immediate transfer of the press wine into barrels | Tasting and selection of three press wines among the barrels

Ageing: 18- 24 months in French, fine grain, oak barrels (80% new, the rest 1-2 years old)