At a glance

Producer

Château Angélus

Region

Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$350 - $450 (750ml retail, 2024 estimate)

Tasting profile

Concentrated black cherry, cassis, plum, graphite, violet, with hints of spice and toasted oak; tannins are firm and slightly astringent but balanced

Evolution: Fruit will integrate further, tannins soften, secondary notes of earth, truffle, cigar box, and minerality develop

At peak: Velvety texture with harmonious fruit and tertiary complexity of forest floor, leather, and mocha emerging

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, moderate to high acidity providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Pronounced, fine-grained, firmly structured tannins with good resolution potential over time

Alcohol

About 14-14.5%, well integrated

Aging potential

30-40+ years from vintage with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2063

Optimal window

2027 to 2066

Current status

Needs aging, not yet at peak; approachable with decanting

Current condition

Firm and structured tannins with rich dark fruit; still quite youthful and primary flavors dominant

Peak drinking from 2030 to 2040 aligns with maturation of dense tannins and integration of oak and earthy complexities, offering balance and elegant mouthfeel; after peak, the wine will gradually decline as tertiary notes fade and fruit diminishes.

Food pairing

Classic pairings include roast lamb, duck breast with berry reduction, grilled ribeye, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses; as wine evolves, richer game dishes and truffle-infused sides become excellent complements.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften firm tannins and open up complex aromas and flavors

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Sustainable viticulture with biodynamic influences, reduction of chemical inputs, water conservation

Château Angélus is progressively implementing environmentally-friendly practices in vineyard and cellar, aiming for ecological balance and quality improvement.