In Bond Fine Wine. 2021 Château Laroque, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. Grand Cru Classé • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 94/100 (AG). Drinking window: 2026–2046. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Laroque is fast becoming one of the most compelling names in Saint Emilion, thanks largely to its cooler, limestone-rich terroir perched high on the plateau. This location and terroir brings a natural freshness and precision to the wines—qualities that really shine in warmer years. Since David Suire took the reins in 2015, the estate has undergone a quiet transformation. Laroque is a big property of 60 hecatres but now only the best parcels—mostly old-vine Merlot with a little Cabernet Franc—make it into the Grand Vin. The result is a wine that are pure, vibrant, and mineral-driven. Recent vintages like 2022 and 2021 have wowed critics and collectors alike, offering Grand Cru quality at a much friendlier price. With its combination of cool terroir, thoughtful winemaking, and growing critical acclaim, Laroque is now firmly on the radar for Saint Emilion lovers looking for value.
William Kelley (WK) — 92–95/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 29/04/2022
The 2021 Laroque is very promising indeed, and winemaker David Suire and I agree that it is likely to surpass the estate's 2018 vintage in quality. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of sweet berries, plums and cherries, framed by a discreet patina of new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, seamless and complete, with excellent concentration, lively acids and ripe, melting tannins. A blend of 99% Me…
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 94/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 27/02/2024 · Drink 2028-2046
The 2021 Laroque is classy, elegant and polished. A wine of stature and breeding, Laroque is a quintessentially finessed Saint-Émilion. Silky tannins wrap around a core of dark cherry, plum, spice, new leather, licorice and menthol. All the elements are very nicely balanced.
Jane Anson (JA) — 93/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 26/03/2024 · Drink 2026-2040
Well-judged clove, sage and anis spice lifts this above the average in the 2021 lineup, and there are delicous black tea, spiced plum and blueberry fruits. Clear grip and limestone character. A success in the vintage, but that doesnt mean it escapes the cool vintage character. Beaurmartin family, David Suire director, 61ha size, 41hl/h yield. 45% of production in the Grand Vin.