2015 Laroque

The 2015 Laroque is a sumptuous, racy wine. Bright red stone fruit, plum, blood orange, mint and wild flowers are all pushed forward in this deceptively medium-bodied Saint-Émilion. The 10% Cabernet Franc makes a significant contribution to the wine's aromatic top register and bright, saline-infused finish. There is a level of depth and overall silkiness in this old-vine Saint-Émilion that is quite appealing. The 2015 is tasty and promising, even at this early stage. Apr 2016, www.Vinous.com

The 2015 Laroque is one of the grandest properties in Saint Émilion - an expansive vineyard with a château that would make most Left Bank properties look small. It has an attractive bouquet with dark black cherries, cassis and violets, well defined and with attractive, expressive Merlot that is kept under control. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannin, well-judged acidity, cohesive in the mouth with black fruit, a touch of truffle and a pleasant saline finish. New winemaker David Suire (see Pavie-Macquin, Larcis-Ducasse etc) has clearly had an impact on this Saint Émilion, and delivered a wine commensurate of its grand building. This will be a name to follow in the future. Apr 2016, www.eRobertParker.com, Drink: 2019-2032

Powerful and ripe, this is a solid, serious wine. It has dark tannins that are integrated into the rich black fruits. The wood is filling the texture with spice and a touch of bitter chocolate. It will be a full, dense wine, lifted by its juicy acidity. Apr 2016, Roger Voss, www.wineenthusiast.com