critic reviews
The 1983 Gruaud Larose is a vintage I have enjoyed several times. It has a delectable bouquet of dark red berry fruit, redcurrant and a touch of pomegranate, with subtle notes of cedar, tobacco and a touch of black tea. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins that lend it a very good structure. There is plenty of red fruit to enjoy, plus crisp acidity and great tension on the finish that admittedly does not possess the extravagance of the 1982. Yes, it remains a thoroughly enjoyable Gruaud Larose that will give pleasure for another couple of years. Tasted in April 2013 at the "-3 vintage" vertical at the château.
A blockbuster 1983, Gruaud-Larose can be drunk now, but promises to keep for at least another 20-25 years. Typical of the wines this property made in the late seventies and early eighties, it offers a full throttle style, an opaque dark ruby/purple color with no amber at the edges, and a huge nose of melted road tar, new saddle leather, grilled meats, and black fruits. It is sure to be controversial among those tasters looking for only new oak and fruit aromas. Powerful, spicy, and full-bodied, with surprising viscosity for a 1983, this wine's low acidity allows it to be appreciated now, but there are still formidable quantities of sweet tannins in the finish. One of the most successful wines produced in 1983, it is still available in the marketplace at a reasonable price. Last tasted, 4/93.