2017 Le Crock
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Deep ruby colour. Spicy, with star anise and leather on the nose. Camphor and tobacco – this is smoky. Chunky tannins envelope the fruit somewhat at this stage. There is fruit weight underneath, but there is a risk it will not overtake the structure. (TP)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Le Crock is plump and juicy, but very much in the mid-weight style that is typical of so many northern Médoc wines in 2017. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange and floral overtones give the wine its bright, lifted personality.
The 2017 Le Crock, always an unfortunate name, is a de facto delicious Saint-Estèphe that will appeal to those seeking a denser, more fruit-driven style in this vintage. It has not really changed since I tasted it from barrel with copious blackberry and raspberry coulis scents on the nose. The 25% new oak is nicely integrated. The palate is weighty and muscular for this vintage with black fruit laced with cedar and hoisin, just a little headiness on the finish. Personally I would afford it another three or four years in bottle.
A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2017 Chateau Le Crock has a charming, forward style that's very much in the vintage. Blackcurrants, black cherries, leafy herbs, earth, and a touch of tobacco all emerge from the glass, and it's medium-bodied and round, with light tannins and a good finish. Drink this charmer over the coming decade or so.