Château Gloria Saint Julien 2016

The 2016 Gloria is comprised of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot aged 14 months in 42% new and 58% one-year-old French oak. Deep garnet-purple in color, it sings of plum preserves, warm cassis and dark chocolate with touches of tobacco, bay leaves and lavender with a waft of dusty soil. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant and savory in the mouth with loads of layers and a lifted finish.

Barrel Sample. The tannins in this wine are firm, resulting in a selection of more structural grip than fruity opulence. It will need to evolve and mellow, ensuring that the fruit is allowed to come forward.