Laroque 2024 (1.5L)

93 Points, Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux: "Deep plum colour, cold ash and fennel on the opening, savoury, well judged and well extracted, this is on the slim side, with the focus on cassis bud and rose petals. You probably have to be a bit of a limestone fanatic (as I am) to truly love this vintage of Laroque, because it is less gourmet than in vintages like 2022 and 2023, setting texture and minerality above fruit, but exceptionally well handled by estate director David Suire, and it should soften further ove ageing. Once again a value pick." 04/25

93-95 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent: "Deep garnet-purple colored. Leaps with bold notes of fresh blackberries and kirsch, leading to suggestions of lilac bush, underbrush, and cinnamon stick. The light to medium-bodied palate is elegant and light on its feet with a lively line and fragrant finish." 05/25

91-93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com: "Coming from a cooler terroir of pure limestone soils, including 15% hillside parcels, the 2024 Château Laroque is based on 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc and is resting in 50% new oak. This beautifully hued effort offers vibrant notes of ripe blackberries, juicy cassis, violets, spring flowers, and a chalky minerality. It is medium-bodied, with a pure, elegant, and layered mouthfeel, nicely integrated acidity, and outstanding length. This is a clean, crisp, and elegant Laroque with ripe tannins and plenty of charm. Harvest here stretched from September 27 to October 8." 05/25

93-94 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "A ripe, plush merlot with lots of dark cherries, plums and berries on the nose. Quite bright on the palate, with lovely dark fruit and freshness. Fine tannins, with a medium body and a lengthy finish. 98% merlot and 2% cabernet franc." 05/25