Château Laroque Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2019

Introduction

Château Laroque Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2019 is a distinguished red wine from the historic Château Laroque, a venerable estate in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, France. Elevated to Grand Cru Classé status in 2012, Château Laroque is celebrated for its exceptional terroir, predominantly limestone-rich soils, which impart a unique freshness and minerality to its wines. The 2019 vintage, widely lauded across Bordeaux for its remarkable quality, promises an elegant and age-worthy expression of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, embodying Laroque’s meticulous approach to winemaking and its commitment to reflecting the Saint-Émilion plateau.

Character Description

The Château Laroque Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2019 presents a deep, luminous ruby-purple hue, indicative of its concentration and youth. It offers a captivating aromatic bouquet of ripe black cherry, wild plum, and fresh blackberry, intricately woven with nuanced notes of violet, crushed rock minerality, licorice, and subtle hints of cedar and tobacco from precise oak aging. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and beautifully structured texture, with concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors mirroring the nose. It is supported by firm, fine-grained tannins that provide excellent backbone and longevity, balanced by a vibrant freshness and acidity. The finish is exceptionally long, precise, and mineral-driven, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit, floral elegance, and the distinctive Saint-Émilion terroir. The overall impression is one of sophisticated power, profound depth, and the evolving complexity typical of a top Right Bank Bordeaux.

Perfect Pairings

This magnificent Saint-Émilion is an exceptional partner for refined and classic culinary creations. It pairs beautifully with roasted lamb with herbs, pan-seared duck breast with cherry reduction, slow-cooked beef tenderloin, or rich mushroom preparations. Its elegant structure and complex savory notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to aged, hard cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or a mature Parmigiano Reggiano. The wine’s depth and long aging potential make it a fantastic choice for grand occasions, a memorable dinner, or for cellaring to enjoy its graceful evolution over many years. Decanting for at least two hours is highly recommended to allow its full expression.

About the Winery

Château Laroque is one of the largest and oldest estates in Saint-Émilion, with a history dating back to the 12th century. It is located on a magnificent limestone plateau, which is crucial to the freshness and purity of its wines. Under the visionary leadership of David Suire and the ownership of the Beaumartin family, Château Laroque has undergone a significant resurgence, focusing on sustainable viticulture and meticulous plot-by-plot vinification to truly express the nuances of its complex terroir. Their elevation to Grand Cru Classé reflects their unwavering commitment to quality and their deep respect for the land. The 2019 vintage is a true representation of Château Laroque’s dedication to crafting elegant, precise, and age-worthy Saint-Émilion wines that beautifully balance power with finesse.