Les Tours de Laroque 2019

Les Tours de Laroque is a red from A.O.C. Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, made by Château Laroque from the classic Right Bank blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Merlot supplies body, vibrant fruit and roundness, while Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift, structure and a long, fresh finish. The vineyards are farmed organically, and the estate's terroir is central to the wine: Saint-Émilion's limestone and clay soils retain water through dry summers and lend the wines their freshness and fine, savoury tannin, while the limestone in particular favours the Cabernet Franc's aromatic precision. After fermentation the wine ages fourteen months in oak barrels, where gradual oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds cedar, spice and a tobacco note without overwhelming the fruit. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows blackberry and plum with redcurrant, tobacco, dried herb and a savoury, earthy undertone. The palate is medium to full bodied and elegant, with fine grained tannins, fresh acidity and a long, refined finish in the classic Bordeaux mould. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting half an hour ahead, with roast and grilled red meats.