A blend of 44% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Château Le Crock is a rich, beautifully textured, opulent effort that has loads of black cherries, graphite, crushed herbs and earthy notes. It's ripe, sexy, and beautifully textured, yet also fresh and pure. The 2018 hit 14.3% alcohol, with a pH of 3.71 and an IPT of 80. It's a serious wine.

This has a frankly ripe edge, with plum and black cherry notes showing a caressing feel, while racy bay, charcoal and tobacco notes flow underneath. Hints of leather and humus emerge through the finish, while the fruit has the staying power to match them. Solid range and character. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2033. 7,640 cases made, 56 cases imported.