Appellation: AOC Saint-Estephe (Bordeaux region, left bank)
 
Grapes: 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot
 
Terroir: Garonnaises gravel, sandy-clay subsoil on the hill (at the back of Cos d'Estournel and next to Chateau Haut-Marbuzet)
 
Farming: Organic 
 
Aromatics: "The 2019 Le Crock is a powerful, burly Saint-Estephe. A rush of black cherry, scorched earth, licorice, tobacco and menthol makes a strong opening statement." Vinous, Antonio Galloni
 
Palate: 
"This carries to a medium to full-bodied, reasonably structure, impeccably balanced Saint-Estephe with sold mid-palate depth, beautiful tannins, and outstanding length. The purity, balance, and length are all spot on, and it's going to have 15 to 20 years of longevity, if not more." 12.04.2022 Jeb Dunnuck.
 
About the wine: Owned and farmed by the Cuvelier family this Saint-Estephe estate is one of the appellation rising start. Average age of the vineyard 41 years old. 2019 was registered as one of the hottest years of the decade. After a mild, dry winter, spring was cool and damp. Lovely weather returned with a progressive rise in temperatures, continuing the growing season on a promising note. The month of September was very sunny, encouraging optimal ripeness for each plot of vines. Manual harvest into crates from 19th September to 1st October. Manual sorting of whole bunches. 14 to 18 months in French oak barrels (30% new, 70% second-fill). Renowned for their remarkable ageing potential, Saint-Estèphe wines evolve beautifully over time, gaining in roundness, finesse, and aromatic complexity. These characterful wines flourish in the cellar, whether for a few years or several decades, gradually revealing their full depth.
 
When to drink: Aging potential, decant and drink now or 15-20 years after vintage.
 
Service: 15 to 16 degrees C in Bordeaux glass.
 
Food match: A perfect companion for refined dishes such as herb-crusted rack of lamb, homemade chestnut and potato gnocchi, or a delicate pâté en croûte, enhancing its structure and rich aromatic profile.
 
Press:
Jeb Dunnuck: 92 
Vinous Media, Antonio Galloni: 92