Chateau Laroque , St Emilion Grand Cru Classe 2016

This majestic 247 hectare estate sits on an outstanding terroir of limestone and the vineyard is full of diverse micro-climates. Keeping everything very natural is a key element underpinning everything at Chateaun Laroque - David Suire is the vineyard manager - “Laroque’s vines are over 50 years old and form an incomparable genetic heritage, the precision and diversity of which bring about a purity of expression and authenticity in the wines. ” There's a traditional mix of grape varieties from 50 year old + vines - Merlot, which on limestone gives wines flesh, vivacity, chiselled contours and layers of flavour, and Cabernet Franc which brings length on the palate and a fresh, lean finish. The style of the wine is determined by the harvest weather, the terroirs and grapes selected to go into the First Wine, as well as the natural impact of the vintage. The grapes are carefully vinified to bring out the influence of the limestone soils and to optimise expression, freshness and vivacity in the wines. The wine is aged in barrique over 15 to 18-month period (the exact time depends on the vintage and the development of the wine in oak) followed by the blending process Tasting note - Unsurprisingly the limestone terroir is very evident, precise characters emanate throughout the wine, plum, dark fruits, olive, natural but still feeling very polished and classy Blend - 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc JAMES SUCKLING / 93-94 “A very long and intense red with blackberries, blueberries and blackcurrants on the nose. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a long finish. ” – April, 2017.