Evening with 1949 and 1950 Gruaud Larose Magnums
Was fortunate to had the chance to taste the 1949 and 1950 Gruaud Larose last night, both were out of magnum and shared with 11 people, so lots of juice to go around and to re-taste.
1949: This wine was much lighter in colour compared to the 1950, very ruby colour. Nose of tobacco, graphite, and flowers. On the palate had very earthy, leather, and red fruits, and soft tannin. Original taste from the glass was very nice, however, slowly deteriorated as the night went by.
1950: Very dark ruby in colour, leather, dark fruits on the nose. Very balanced on the palate between lingering fruits and earthiness, hint of remaining tannin. Drinking very well, still very fresh, and remained enjoyable through the evening.
On this night, I much prefer the 1950. Roughly 75% of the group also preferred the 1950 over the 1949.
Posted Sep 25, 2026, 5:06 PM UTC