2021 Angelus, Saint Emilion

Tasting Note

Wine Advocate: 94-96+

A brilliant wine that signposts this estate's evolution under Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal, the 2021 Angélus is a blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, with fully half of the old-vine Cabernet Franc maturing in foudres rather than 225-liter barriques. The result is a wine of unprecedented purity and finesse, unwinding in the glass with compelling aromas of plums, raspberries, rose petals, vine smoke, blood orange and warm spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, deep and layered palate with a rich and fleshy core that entirely conceals its structuring chassis of ultra-refined tannins. Bright and sapid, it's striking for its integration and elegance at this early stage, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it upstage a number of more touted vintages once it's in bottle.

Sotheby's Wine: 92-94

Unfortunately, the château lost a significant part of their production this year. Despite the very limited quantity produced, Stephanie and her team have made a remarkably medium to full-bodied wine with attractive aromas of black fruits and toasted nose with a long and delicate finish. - Victor Rabot