One of the famed sites in Bordeaux, Chateau Angelus has been ranked Premier grand cru classé (A) in the classification of Saint-Emillon wine since 2012. Angelus as well as Chateau Ausone, Chateau Cheval Blanc and Chateau Pavie hold this distinction. Angelus was owned by the Boüard de Laforest family since the Domaine de Mazaret was bequeathed to Comte Maurice de Boüard de Laforest in 1909, and expanded by the acquisition of Clos de L'Angélus in 1926. The estate was named after three Angelus bells which can be audible from the vineyards, coming from the chapel at Mazerat, the church in Saint-Martin de Mazeret and Saint-Émilion. The terroir is quite diverse at the site, varying from sand, limestone and clay.
Michel Rolland has served as consulting winemaker as the 23;4 hectare property is planted to 51% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. Apparently James Bond has an affinity for Chateau Angelus as he orders a glass in the movie Casino Royale. The wine is typically a blend of near equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. I adored the 2010 Chateau Angelus (OB, 97) which is utterly sensational even at the ten year mark. The wonderful core of dark fruits and espresso bean tones, as well as the glorious weight make this hedonistic right bank nearly impossible to resist even in its youth. What a wine! Here is my review of the iconic 2010 Chateau Angelus.
2010 Chateau Angelus- This Saint-Emillon is an incredible showing at now ten years of age. A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc, the wine opens with a dizzying display of dark currants that mingle with espresso bean, blueberry pie and shades of sweet pipe tobacco that all meld in the glass. The palate is remarkably fresh, showing incredible verve and tension. The feeling of weight is quite gratifying. After an hour decant everything really comes together, ranging from dark cherry cordial to dark chocolate covered espresso bean, creosote and menthol tones. Despite being dense the wine is quite light on its feet, showing bright acidity and a seamless texture. The long and gratifying finish provides the ample crescendo, as the 2010 Chateau Angelus has decades of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2045- 97