Press review

Parker # 199 (2/29/2012) : 99 Maturity: -2042

A candidate for one of the finest Angelus produced to date (and there have been many, including 1989, 1990, 2000 and 2005), this blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc was fashioned from tiny yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare. It boasts a black/purple color along with a gorgeous perfume of blueberry liqueur, spring flowers and graphite. In the mouth, notes of incense and cassis also emerge from this velvety-textured, full-bodied, intensely concentrated 2009. With silky tannins, low acidity and spectacular purity, texture and depth, it is already approachable (although I’m sure proprietor Hubert de Bouard would think drinking it now is akin to infanticide), but should keep for 20-30+ years.

The property in brief

1st Grand Cru Classé - B. Angelus is the image of modern Bordeaux and terroir tradition at the same time. Hubert de Boüard, ambitious Director of the château, has priviledged innovation all along the 90's. His vinifications did sometimes disconcert the traditional Saint Emilion winemakers and winelovers, but the quality of his vintages was so good that the château was risen to Premier Cru Classé in 1996. Angélus can be distinguished with its power, its density, its aromatic explosion. It's Saint-Emilion's nectar, really charming when young, and admirably fine when older. Second wine : Carillon d'Angélus.