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Chateau Laroque's story begins in the 12th century when a small tower was erected, laying the foundation for what would become an illustrious winemaking tradition. Fast forward to the 17th century, and the magnificent Chateau we know today was brought to life by the visionary Marquis de Rochefort-Lavie. 

But, even the grandest estates faced their trials. In 1929, the Great Depression cast a shadow, and Chateau Laroque ceased its wine production. The vineyards lay dormant, waiting for a renaissance.

In 1935, the Beaumartin family acquired the estate, breathing new life into Chateau Laroque. The 1962 replanting of vineyards and winery updates set the stage for a brighter future. And the transformation truly began in 2015, when Chateau Laroque reclaimed its place in the world of fine wines.

Lush, sprawling, and meticulously cared for, Chateau Laroque's 61-hectare vineyard boasts 87% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. The terroir's clay and limestone soil impart a unique character to the grapes. Of these hectares, 40 are classified as Grand Cru Classe, while the remaining 21 shine as St. Emilion Grand Cru. But within those hallowed 40, only 27 are chosen to craft the pinnacle – Chateau Laroque.

At Chateau Laroque, nature reigns supreme. The vineyard thrives under 100% organic techniques, though the estate remains humbly unbound by certification. Biodiversity is the name of the game, and they are proud holders of the HVE certification.

In 2015, Chateau Laroque embarked on a mission to produce world-class wines. Guided by the capable hand of David Suire, a Bordeaux luminary, the estate's future is brighter than ever.

2022 was an extraordinary vintage for Bordeaux, it was blessed with a 97 pt review by Wine Spectator who said: "A beautiful vintage. Merlot berries were small and concentrated; Cabernet Franc also relished the conditions. Wines are very aromatic and sleek, with Pomerol and St.-Emilion excelling"

98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc.

Looking at the Grand Vin 2022 Château Laroque, it checks in as 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc raised in 60% new oak with a mix in larger formats, as well as a portion in foudre. Gorgeous black raspberries, spring flowers, graphite, and truffly mineral and crushed stone-like nuances all shine in this stunningly complex, medium to full-bodied effort. With ripe, polished tannins, perfectly integrated acidity, and ultra-fine tannins, it's going to drink well for at least 30 years. The alcohol here is a healthy 14.7 with a pH of 3.4. This is an absolutely gorgeous wine! Buy a case for your cellar. You can thank me later. ~97 Jeb Dunnuck

A pure and focussed nose full of ripe but cool black fruit with soft hints of violets and vanilla. This delighted during Primeurs and it's turned out excellently in bottle. Juicy, clean and crystalline with a perfect balance of fruit, tannins and acidity with plenty of underling power but delivered so elegantly. Great harmony and drinkability on offer. Ends salty with graphite and slate really putting the limestone terroir into the glass. Delicious. Another excellent bottle from this rising start estate under the helm of David Suire. ~97 Decanter

Superb quality delivering grip and lift, with the fleshy black fruits underpinned by steel, crushed slate and softer crayon. Well defined black fruits, mouthwatering, vivid, energetic, one to look out for. 3.55ph reductive ageing on fine lees, 1st racking after 6 months, harvest September 14 to 30, Vineyard located on the limestone plateau and slopes at one of highest points of St Emilion in St Christophe des Bardes, owned by the Beaumartin family, David Suire director. ~97 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux

A blend of 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Laroque is deep garnet-purple in color. It prances out with showy scents of warm black plums, blueberry compote, and chocolate-covered cherries, giving way to wafts of underbrush, violets, and Sichuan pepper. The full-bodied palate delivers seriously impressive tension, with firm, ripe, rounded tannins and bags of bright black fruits, finishing long and fragrant. ~96 The Wine Palate

Showing a dark hue, the wine is all about its perfect balance between intensity, concentration, freshness, and elegance. The red pit fruits are sweet, refined, pure, and supple. The finish is long, creamy, pure, and while powerful, it is elegant as well, leaving you with a saltiness on the backend, providing lift and precision. ~95 The Wine Cellar Insider

The 2022 Laroque has turned out very well indeed in bottle, offering up aromas of cassis, plums, pencil shavings and violets, followed by a medium to full-bodied, suave and vibrant palate that's pure, concentrated and penetrating. Harmonious and integrated, this limestone terroir's identity really shines through. ~95 Wine Advocate

This shows very good integration with the fine wood. Warm bread, graphite, iron and black plums. Rich but still quite fresh, with medium to full body and tightly wound tannins. Long, focused finish. Approachable now, but better in another two years. ~94 James Suckling

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