Tasting Note:
Following on from the sensational 2019, Laroque has once again produced what must be one of the best value buys from Bordeaux. A complex bouquet of violets, liquorice, camphor, garrigue, clay, black cherry, mulberry and fragrant plums unfurls from the glass. The attack is striking for its intensity and purity. Waves of silky textured, mineral infused, bitter-sweet, hedgerow fruit delight the palate, finishing with cashmere like tannins flecked with notes of graphite, cocoa nibs, crème de mûre and griotte. Very impressive. This is worth stocking up on while it’s still affordable!
“The 2020 Laroque is even better than the en primeur sample. Dark and enveloping, with tons of class, Laroque is a winner. Succulent dark plum, gravel, spice, menthol, licorice and pipe tobacco give the 2020 tons of nuance. Laroque is class personified. Winemaker David Suire is doing important work here. 96/100” - Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com
“The 2020 Laroque is a blend of 99% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, aging for around 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. The alcohol is 14.5%. Displaying a deep purple-black color, it slowly unfurls in the glass to reveal fantastically opulent notes of Indian spices, rose oil, dark chocolate and licorice, over a core of blueberry preserves, stewed plums and mulberries, plus a hint of dried mint. The medium to full-bodied palate is packed with layers of black and blue fruits, accented by exotic spices and supported by a racy backbone and velvety tannins, finishing long and perfumed. Gorgeous." 94-96/100 – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, robertparker.com
“Possibly one of the best buys out there, the 2020 Château Laroque comes from a cooler, clay and limestone terroir on the eastern side of the appellation, and this is exactly what you wanted in this vintage. Revealing a vivid purple hue as well as stunning notes of blueberries, cassis, liquid violets, and white truffle, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless, elegant texture, and gorgeous length on the finish. It plays in the more nuanced, elegant end of the spectrum yet still brings ample fruit, richness, and texture. It’s a stunning bottle of wine all about finesse and elegance. Tasted twice. 95-97/100 - Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com