Château Le Crock Saint-Estèphe

The 2016 Le Crock is a blend of 46% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. It has an intense bouquet, showing quite noticeable new oak compared to some of its peers although there is a modest 30%. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannin. This feels grainy in texture, one of the Left Bank wines that could be a doppelgänger for 2010, with a grippy, slightly masculine finish. Hopefully, it will develop more flesh during its élevage.

Tasted blind. Some roundness and subtlety. Very superior and luscious. Inky finish but real drive and character. GV - Good value.

A complex nose with aromas of blackberries, spices and chocolate. It’s full-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that show dark fruit and berries with some lavender and violet undertones. Such gorgeous texture to this. Really impressive for this estate. A blend of 57% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. Try after 2024.