Château Franc La Rose 2018 | Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Château Franc La Rose 2018

The Château Franc La Rose 2018 is a red wine from the prestigious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation in Bordeaux, France. Produced by the Trocard family, who have managed the estate for fifteen generations since 1620, this vintage reflects the terroir of Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes. The vineyards cover six hectares on a clay-limestone plateau, where the vines are approximately forty years old. The estate holds HVE (High Environmental Value) certification, and the grapes were harvested by hand to ensure quality selection.

The blend is composed of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc. After harvest, the grapes undergo a maceration period lasting four to five weeks. This extended contact with the skins contributes to the wine’s structure and complexity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for eighteen months in French oak barrels, sixty percent of which are new. This maturation process integrates the fruit flavors with subtle oak nuances, resulting in a refined and balanced profile typical of high-quality Saint-Émilion Grand Crus.

Critics have responded positively to this vintage. The Wine Advocate awarded the wine 91 points, while James Suckling gave it a score of 92. These ratings indicate a well-crafted wine that meets the expectations of its esteemed appellation.

Overall, the Château Franc La Rose 2018 embodies the classic character of Saint-Émilion, combining the plushness of Merlot with the aromatic complexity of Cabernet Franc. The clay-limestone soil and careful winemaking practices contribute to a wine that is both structured and approachable. With its significant aging in new French oak, this vintage offers depth, making it a representative example of the Trocard family’s winemaking heritage.