Chateau Laroque 2018 拉羅克酒莊 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classe 《醇酒系列 - F932 》

The 2018 Laroque is composed of 97% Merlot and 3%Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new barriques. The alcohol is 14.5% and the pH is3.48. Deep garnet-purple colored, it bursts from the glass with flamboyantnotes of stewed black plums, Black Forest cake and boysenberries, plus hints ofcandied violets, star anise and unsmoked cigars with a playful waft ofsassafras. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with juicy black fruits,supported by plush tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and fragrant.

Aromas of ripe blackcurrants, spiced cherries,cloves, praline, tea leaves and crushed gravel. It’s medium-to full-bodied withfirm, tightly knit tannins and fresh acidity. Fleshy, chewy layers lead to a long,mineral finish.

The 2018 Laroque is every bit as impressive as itwas from barrel. Silky, polished and refined, the 2018 marks a major stepforward for the château. Lavender, spice, blueberry, cedar and mint all grace aSaint-Émilion built more on finesse than power. The long, persistent finish,with its saline accents, adds to the wine's pedigree. The 2018 is beautifullydone. The blend is 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc. Technical Director DavidSuire gave the 2018 lots 26-29 days on the skins fermented in cement, withmanual pump-overs and punch-downs. New oak is 55%.

This has some frank ripeness with a mix of darkplum, loganberry and cherry paste flavors. They're integrated nicely though,with a sandalwood and dried anise spine for form through the refined finish.