The 2018 Chateau Laroque Bordeaux Blend from Saint Emilion, France, is a notable offering from Laroque with a rich and complex profile. Composed of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, this wine is aged in 50% new barriques and exhibits a 14.5% alcohol content with a pH of 3.48. It’s a deep garnet-purple colored wine, presenting a multifaceted bouquet and a well-rounded palate.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the wine a score of 95, describing it as bursting with "flamboyant notes of stewed black plums, Black Forest cake, and boysenberries," complemented by "hints of candied violets, star anise, and unsmoked cigars with a playful waft of sassafras." She praised its medium to full-bodied palate, which is "packed with juicy black fruits" and supported by "plush tannins and tons of freshness."
James Suckling also gave a commendable review, scoring it 94 points. He noted the "aromas of ripe blackcurrants, spiced cherries, cloves, praline, tea leaves, and crushed gravel." He highlighted its "firm, tightly knit tannins and fresh acidity," suggesting it has "fleshy, chewy layers leading to a long, mineral finish."
Jeff Leve of TheWineCellarInsider.com also rated it 95 points, describing the wine as "rich, full-bodied, luscious and loaded with a myriad of dark red berries, black cherries, and a touch of blue fruit." He emphasized its "concentrated, opulent, and silky" nature, with a finish that "really sticks with you."
Jeb Dunnuck was particularly enthusiastic, giving it a 96-point rating. He appreciated its "gorgeous perfume of ripe black cherries, mulberries, cassis, violets, spring flowers, and chalky minerality," and noted its "medium to full-bodied, pure, and incredibly elegant" character.
Decanter, Vinous, Wine Spectator, and Wine Enthusiast also provided strong reviews with scores around the 92-94 range. They highlighted the wine's density of fruit, the signature of the limestone soils, and its refined finish.
Overall, the 2018 Chateau Laroque is a wine of significant depth and complexity, praised for its lively bouquet, well-integrated oak, and balanced finish. It is poised for aging but also accessible now, making it a versatile choice for Bordeaux enthusiasts.