Country: France

Region: Bordeaux - Saint Emillion

Vintage: 2018

Cépage: Merlot (97%); Cabernet Franc (3%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 95 (RP); 96 (JD); 94 (JS)

" The 2018 Château Laroque checks in as almost all Merlot that comes from an incredibly strict selection of just 41% of the total production. Brought up in a mix of new and used barrels, it's more about finesse than power, offering a gorgeous perfume of ripe black cherries, mulberries, cassis, violets, spring flowers, and chalky minerality. Medium to full-bodied, pure, and incredibly elegant on the palate, it builds nicely with time in the glass, has ultra-fine tannins, flawlessly integrated tannins, acidity and fruit, and a great finish. It's as classy as they come. Approachable today with a decant, it will drink nicely for 20 years or more. Readers looking for an impeccably made, classic, high-quality Saint-Emilion that doesn't break the bank should back up the truck for this beauty."

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) - 03/21