Sarget de Gruaud Larose - 2001

From the St. Julien region in the Medoc of Bordeaux on the left bank of the Gironde, this is from a well known chateau as it was classified as 2eme Cru Classe in the 1855 ranking. This particular one (Sarget) is the second wine of the chateau. This just means that it is from the vines that are sub-prime from the rest. They are still from the same vineyards and made in the same way, they are just the lesser quality grapes. Probably the ones that get more shade for some reason or the ones near the busy road or something. But I honestly think a lot of second wines are just the same as the first, and just a means of the chateau to reach a wider consumer base. Like Tesco's own brand Chateauneuf du Pape made at the St Pierre vinery is most likely exactly the same as St. Pierre's own branded wine that is sold for 3 pounds extra, also at Tesco. Or Waitroses own branded pasta. Do you really think Waitrose have their own pasta factory? No, they pay Buttoni or some other Pasta producer to produce for them, for their own brand. Both win. Wider audience. Anyway, back to the Sarget. It's now most definitely my favourite Bordeaux. I will get it for my wedding if I can get hold of 4 cases. It is classic Bordeaux. Ripe leather, old library book, museum, ripe fruit pudding kind of taste. We shared it with my brother over Sun's nicely baked ham&cheese Quiche. It was great. Special wine, not for every day, but worth getting.