Château Laroque

Château Laroque

Château Laroque in Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes

Château Laroque is a renowned winery located in the Bordeaux region of France, specifically in the Saint-Émilion appellation. The estate is known for producing high-quality red wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.

History

The history of Château Laroque dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest estates in the Saint-Émilion region. The château itself was constructed in the 17th century and has been a significant landmark in the area ever since. Over the centuries, the estate has undergone various renovations and expansions, adapting to the changing demands of viticulture and winemaking.

In the 19th century, Château Laroque gained prominence under the ownership of the Beaumartin family, who invested in modernizing the vineyards and winemaking facilities. The estate was classified as a Grand Cru Classé in the 1955 Saint-Émilion classification, a testament to its quality and reputation.

Vineyards

Château Laroque's vineyards cover approximately 61 hectares, predominantly planted with Merlot, which thrives in the clay-limestone soils of the region. The estate also cultivates smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, which contribute to the complexity and structure of the wines.

The vineyards are managed with a focus on sustainability and respect for the environment. Techniques such as cover cropping, minimal use of chemicals, and careful canopy management are employed to ensure the health of the vines and the quality of the grapes.

Winemaking

The winemaking process at Château Laroque combines traditional methods with modern technology. Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and quality. After sorting, the grapes undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise control over the fermentation process.

Vineyards of Château Laroque

The wines are then aged in French oak barrels, with a portion of new oak used each year to impart subtle flavors and aromas. The aging process typically lasts between 12 to 18 months, depending on the vintage and the desired style of the wine.

Wines

Château Laroque produces a flagship wine under its own name, which is a blend dominated by Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is known for its elegance, balance, and aging potential, often displaying notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones.

In addition to the grand vin, the estate also produces a second wine, which offers a more accessible expression of the estate's terroir and winemaking philosophy.

Related Pages

• Bordeaux wine regions
• Saint-Émilion
• Merlot
• Cabernet Franc
• Cabernet Sauvignon