2003 Crozes Hermitage La Guiraude
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Tasting notes
The finest barrels are used for Graillot’s luxury cuvee, La Guiraude. The 2003 Crozes-Hermitage La Guiraude (325 cases; 14.7% alcohol) is fatter and denser than the regular cuvee, with more power as well as richness. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Chambers & Chambers, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 642-5500, and Paul Bullard Associates, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-7957
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Saturated medium ruby. Higher-pitched aromas of black fruits, violet and licorice; quite reserved today but hints at jammy ripeness. A step up in intensity and tannic structure. Tight in the middle, with flavors of bitter chocolate and licorice and an impression of firmer acidity than the normale Finishes with huge tannins that really spread out to coat the tongue and palate. The notes of licorice, blackberry and violet repeat on the back. Like the regular 2003 Crozes, this weighs in at 14. 8% alcohol, which is downright freakish for a wine from this address. Graillot compared the 2003 to 1995 and 1989, two previous dry years that yielded wines with substantial tannins.