Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
75cl * 13.5% ABV * Saint Julien, Bordeaux
Established by Henri Martin 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. Thus, the main reason that the Chateau itself isn't a cru classé is simply because it did not yet exist in 1855! Nevertheless, the origins of the terroir and vinification techniques have enabled them to obtain worldwide recognition regardless.
Chateau Gloria's 2016 is one of the undisputed stars of this legendary vintage. Deep in colour and intense in character, with multiple layers of rich, sweet red cherry and black berries, tobacco, menthol, lavender and liquorice. This wine is a real head-turner and ready to drink now after a couple of hours in a decanter, or even better kept for another year or two.
Drink now-2040
'Dense and layered red with berry and tobacco character, a full body and a savory finish. Got it all here.' 93-4 pts, James Suckling (2017)
'Immediately on the nose you get the rich structure of the fruit, rippling with texture and life. It has just the right amount of drama, offering a tight and well-focussed delivery. This is beautiful, showing great underlying freshness and grip with real tension and minerality. Drinking Window 2027 - 2050' 94 pts, Jane Anson (2017)
Tasted blind. Restrained nose suggests there’s a lot going on here. Savoury – as dry as a Barton wine – but with great constitution. Drier than usual. Drink 2027 – 2045' 17.5 pts, Jancis Robinson (2020)