2021 Rochebelle
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Tasting notes
I loved the 2021 Château Rochebelle, which is based on 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. Flat-out gorgeous red and black fruits, cedary herbs, crushed stone, and spicy wood notes define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a seamless, layered mouthfeel, and perfectly integrated tannins and acidity. I finished my note with "I'd buy it." Give bottles just 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Aromas of cherries, berries, licorice and baking chocolate introduce the 2021 Rochebelle, a medium to full-bodied, deep and youthfully structured wine with good depth at the core, lively acids and fine but youthfully chalky tannins that assert themselves on the finish. This is a strong effort for this limestone terroir, but it will reward a bit of patience.
This is austere on the finish but exactly in the style that you want austerity during En Primeur, where the tannins are subdued but flexible and you can feel their hidden power. Limestone tug of salinity through the palate, bright berry fruit, saffron spice on the finish, this is good stuff from owners Philip and Emilie Faniest. A 3ha estate right on the limestone plateau. Will widen and soften over ageing.