One of two classed-growth estates in Saint-Julien owned by the descendants of Henri Martin, this estate has been renovated and the results show in this well-crafted wine. Ripe tannins are balanced by smoky blackberry fruits and pure, clean acidity. Drink the wine from 2024.
94 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Feb 2018)
What a gorgeous and supple young wine with ultra-fine tannins and vivid acidity. Medium to full body and direct and driven tannins. Shows such beauty. Better in 2020 but already beautiful.
94 points, James Suckling (Feb 2018)
The 2015 Gloria is another Saint-Julien that has improved over the last 12 months. It has a bolder and more exuberant bouquet than some of its peers, featuring lush blackberry and blueberry fruit and revealing a touch of iodine and crushed violet with aeration. The medium-bodied palate displays supple tannin, a fine bead of acidity and very pure fruit intensity (black cherries, bilberry and boysenberry), although it clams shut toward the finish. Slightly more modern in style than its peers, this should still age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.
93 points, Neal Martin, Vinous (Jul 2019)
Well-steeped plum, fig and boysenberry fruit is richly layered, supported by embedded brambly grip and backed by waves of ganache and sweet tobacco on the finish. This has plenty of energy to carry it in the cellar while it rounds into form. Best from 2023 through 2038. 18,333 cases made.
93 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2018)
#63 - Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2018
A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that saw 40% new oak, the 2015 Château Gloria is a beautiful Saint-Julien that’s well worth seeking out and drinking. Blackcurrants, damp earth, spicy oak and hints of leafy herbs all flow to an upfront, elegant, yet fruit forward 2015 that has sweet tannin and good freshness. It’s no doubt a charmer, yet will see its 20th birthday in fine form. Tasted twice.
92 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Nov 2017)