|
The buzz about 2009 Chateau Gloria has continued to grow ever since the wine was tasted from the barrel in the Spring of 2010. You can see how the buzz has grown by following the timeline of comments from then until now.
March 2010— "Concentrated, balanced, rich powerful Gloria" Geof Brooke, Wine Buyer at UGC Tastings in Bordeaux
April 2010— Robert Parker 91-93* Points “may be the finest yet produced”
October 2011— Neal Martin 95 Points “may well be the finest Gloria ever made”
January 2012— “4 ½ stars and best young Chateau Gloria I’ve ever tasted” Jon Visser, Wine Buyer at UGC Tasting in New York
January 2012— James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 92 points “A serious young wine”
February 2012— Robert Parker, on his Twitter account, “great value in top Bordeaux-2009 Gloria competes with wines 4-5X the price”
March 2012— Robert Parker 93 Points “this may be the value of the vintage” Reviews Robert Parker 93 Points
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.
Neal Martin's Wine Journal 95 Points
Tasted at the Union de Grand Cru in London. This may well be the finest Gloria ever made. I love the purity and mineralite on the nose of this Gloria: so expressive and vibrant, immense clarity and precision. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, suave and sophisticated with a wonderful composed, precise finish that lingers long in the mouth. Top class. Tasted October 2011.
Jancis Robinson 17/20 Points
Full, rich and explosive on the nose. Very subtle and well balanced and gorgeous. Dry not drying finish. The zest of St-Julen with a hint of white pepper and clove. Nice wine! Date tasted 1st April 2010. Drink 2015-2023.
Decanter 17/20 Points
Superb deep colour, seductively floral nose with wild violets, fresh, fleshy fruit with great depth and well-balanced length. Drink 2014-20. | 
