In Bond Fine Wine. 2022 Château Laroque, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. Grand Cru Classé • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 97/100 (JA). Drinking window: 2028–2048. 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) — 93–95/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 28/04/2023
Another impressive performance from this estate, the 2022 Laroque offers up aromas of sweet berries, violets, iris and exotic spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered palate with a rich core of fruit that's framed by lively acids, concluding with a taut, chalky finish. Once again, it's the result of a strict selection that sees only 45% of the production released as the grand vin.
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 95/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 28/01/2025 · Drink 2028-2042
The 2022 Laroque is even better from bottle than it was en primeur. Dark, rich and enveloping, the 2022 is seriously impressive. Black cherry, leather, licorice, dried herbs and mocha race across the palate. The possesses superb depth and nuance while capturing all of the richness of the year. Laroque is very clearly one of the sleepers of the year. Superb.
James Suckling (JS) — 93–94/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 13/04/2023
A very classic Bordeaux with medium to full body, firm tannins and crunchy character, with a linear nature. Currants and blackberries. Sandalwood, too. Fresh.