Tasting Notes
Vinous 92/100
The 2009 Gloria has a well defined, classic Saint-Julien bouquet with blackberry, forest floor, cedar and hints of mint coming through with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. Not unlike Branaire-Ducru in style but with just a little more heft towards the grippy finish. This is a Gloria that I would broach over the next decade. Tasted at BI Wines & Spirits’ Ten Year On tasting.
Anticipated maturity: 2021-2044
Robert Parker 93
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.
JancisRobinson.com 18/20
Tasted blind. Very dark crimson. Savoury nose. Extremely opulent. A real charmer. The fruit almost swamps the considerable tannin. Very dramatic. Enough but not excessive freshness. QGV
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040
