Chateau Gloria 2009

2009 Saint-Julien

The 2009 Chateau Gloria displays a purple-tinted, deep red colour. This Saint-Julien reveals all the characteristics of great vintages with exemplary classicism. The nose exudes intense red fruits with some hints of jam as well as rich and complex scents of liquorice, catechu, and vanilla. The palate is defined by extraordinary balance and finesse. The attack is bold and sharp, followed by generously creamy and silky (cashmere-like) tannins: a sign of perfectly matured Cabernets Sauvignons. Everything in this offering is remarkable; the melting texture is incredible! Retro-olfaction confirms the pulp sensation from fruits and persistent length: A superior wine, solid and precise!

Wine Advocate-Parker :
Gloria has long been one of the most popular wines in America, but I do not believe they have ever made better wines than they have over the last decade, and the 2009 is one of their finest. While this estate is not a classified growth, it certainly performs like one in 2009. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by an expressive, flamboyant bouquet of black fruits, Christmas spices, licorice and roasted Provencal herbs. Fuller-bodied, more concentrated and extracted than most vintages with soft tannins, its low acidity and a sumptuous, plump style remind me of a modern day version of the 1982 (which is fully mature but still in great shape). The 2009 Gloria is a very smart purchase for those looking to maximize their buying power. In fact, this may be the value of the vintage.