Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
75cl * 13.5% ABV * Saint Julien, Bordeaux
Created relatively recently by Henri Martin during the second world war in 1942, when he purchased 6 hectares of vines in St Julien, Chateau Gloria is unique in that it has been built up piece by piece over several years through the purchase of parcels, the majority of which were classified as grand crus in 1855. The reason that the Chateau isn't a cru classé is that it didn't exist in 1855! Yet the origins of the terroir and the painstaking growing and vinification techniques used on the land historically, are the reasons why its quality is recognised worldwide.
96 Points, Neal Martin, Feb. 2023, 'The 2019 Gloria has a compelling nose: black fruit, crushed rocks, tobacco and very subtle marine scents that are all beautifully combined. Perhaps the most precise and delineated nose among an impressive array of Saint-Julien's this year. The palate is medium-bodied with a lively opening. A touch of soy infuses the black fruit; fine-boned with wonderful sapidity on the finish. Extraordinary length. Serious. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. Drink 2027 - 2060' N.b. This is the highest score that Neal Martin has ever given to Chateau Gloria.
94 Points, Jane Anson, 2020, 'Another winning velvety texture out of St Julien. You can trace the warmth and generosity of the vintage in the concentration and the ripeness of these blackberry and raspberry fruits but it is so seductive and carefully balanced with a core of freshness and a ton of crushed stone, black chocolate and baked earth adding layers and interest. This should be good value and is a definite buy. So much character and personality, right up there with the best vintages of this property.