Laroque 2019 (750ML)

95-97 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate: "Composed of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Laroque was harvested from the 30th of September to the 10th of October. Yields were 43 hectoliters per hectare this year. Alcohol came in at 14.5%, with a relatively low pH of 3.44. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with bold scents of blueberry preserves, Black Forest cake, dark chocolate and lilacs with underlying hints of aniseed, espresso and pencil lead plus a waft of smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely filled with dark, seductive berry layers and a whole myriad of savory nuances, framed by wonderfully soft, velvety tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and perfumed. Beautiful!" 6/20

92-94 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2019 Laroque has a very ripe and generous bouquet with scents of small black cherries intermingling with camphor and light spicy aromas. This is a nose that wants to make an impression. The palate is medium-bodied with a sweet ripe entry, layers of red fruit (cranberry, redcurrant and raspberry) mixed with soy and white pepper. It remains well defined right to the finish with a pastille-like aftertaste. This is a very fine 2019 from a rejuvenated estate under the guidance of David Suire." 6/20

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2019 Laroque captures all of the potential it showed as a young barrel sample. Succulent and racy to the core, with striking depth, Laroque is voluptuous, creamy and wonderfully inviting right out of the gate. Succulent dark cherry fruit, mocha, spice, new leather, licorice and menthol build into the voluptuous finish. Laroque balances fruit intensity with energy. It is certainly impressive in 2019. Tasted two times." 02/22

94-95 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "This is very minerally and stony with crushed cement. Medium to full body and firm, polished tannins. It's floral and complex. So fresh and bright. Wonderful balance to this. Elegance and drinkability. Better than the 2018. One of best ever." 5/20

93-95+ Points, Jeb Dunnuck: "From a cooler terroir on the eastern side of Saint-Emilion, the Château Laroque has been on an upward trajectory over the past handful of years, and the 2019 is another gem readers should snatch up. Vivid notes of crème de cassis, white flowers, truffle, and distinct minerality all give way to a medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced 2019 that has ripe tannins, again, great minerality, integrated acidity, and a great finish. This is classic Saint-Emilion and it reminds me of a slightly more elegant, fresher version of the 2018. It's a beautiful wine. Tasted twice." 6/20