Château Laroze 2020

Juicy and supple, with lovely fleshy tannins — not chewy but mouthfilling with a chalky texture. I also really like the cool blue fruits and salty touches. It’s not the most detailed right now, but it’s fresh and feisty. Bold and characterful, perhaps stops a little short, the texture just taking away from the fruit persistency, but this has structure and feels well worked. It’s dark and brooding, the liquorice is apparent, but this will be delicious.

Aromas of ripe dark berries, dried herbs, lavender, cocoa and dried orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with juicy tannins and a savory fruit character. It’s structured with a nicely filled, opulent palate and a toned, lingering finish. Try after 2025.

Full bottle 1,320 g. Cask sample taken 7 April. Near-impenetrable crimson. Fragrant, floral, open nose. Easy-peasy wine that plays the playful rather than longevity card. Juicy fruit without too much tannin and sufficient acidity. Finishes a little suddenly with a sandpaper note. (JR)

Plums, spicy black raspberries and flowers fill the nose. Medium-bodied, silky, long and fresh, with an elegant, dark plum and spicy chocolate finish that lingers. I really like the energy, sweetness and length in this vintage. 92-94 Pts

Dark ruby, purple reflections, subtle brightening on the rim. Wild blackberries, a touch of liquorice, ripe plums, some tobacco, soft herbal touch. Medium body, sweet cherries, vivid tannins, dark nougat, medium length, a fine spicy wine for the table.

92–93

A distinctly spicy nose with notes of white pepper, almost like Espelette pepper. Then comes very fresh, enticing fruit, with aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, and raspberry. The palate is silky, almost creamy, with a sensual, satiny texture.

As is customary, Laroze reveals itself slowly, especially on the nose. Inviting fruity, floral and spicy nuances. On the palate, the wine shows great finesse thanks to precise, velvety tannins that provide excellent support alongside a structuring acidity. An elegant, promising wine that deserves a little time in the cellar.