Château ANGÉLUS 2016
On the southern slopes of Saint-Émilion, Château Angélus is set in a natural amphitheater whose topography and geological diversity explain much of its identity. Present on these lands since the late 18th century, the de Boüard de Laforest family has gradually established a vineyard where Merlot shares the spotlight with a particularly significant proportion of Cabernet Franc. This emphasis on Cabernet Franc historically distinguishes Angélus from many right bank crus and contributes to the freshness, aroma, and longevity of its wines. The estate's name recalls the time when the bells of several nearby churches could be heard from the vineyards at the time of the Angelus. In 2016, the château held the rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé "A" in the then-current Saint-Émilion classification. This vintage also marks a stylistic evolution sought by the estate, favoring greater precision in extractions and a more refined expression of the tannins. In a sunny and dry year, the clay soils of the domain played a crucial role in preserving water supply and the balance of the grapes.
Château Angélus 2016 blends 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc. After a wet spring, the summer settled in remarkably dry and bright conditions before September rains ideally revived maturation. Harvesting took place from October 4 to 21, allowing each plot and each grape variety to be picked at optimal maturity. The Merlots provided generous and deep matter, while the Cabernet Francs stood out for their crispness, spicy expression, and remarkable finesse of their tannins. Extractions were adapted to the exceptional quality of the skins to build structure without seeking excessive power. Aging in French oak barrels then accompanies the wine's density and gradually refines its texture. The result combines the richness of the vintage with persistent freshness, featuring a more slender than massive architecture.
The color is deep, almost opaque at the core, with still very young garnet reflections. The bouquet combines blackberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry with notes of violet, graphite, and spices, then evolves towards cedar, cocoa, and a mentholated nuance. Upon aeration, the Cabernet Franc progressively asserts its floral and peppery character, adding relief to the Merlot's ripeness. The palate is ample but remarkably defined, with fine, silky, and tight tannins that give an almost cashmere-like texture impression. The black fruit remains precise, extended by licorice, blond tobacco, and a mineral dimension that keeps the whole in tension. The finish is very long, fresh, and spicy, with persistence on blackcurrant, violet, and graphite. Still capable of evolving for several decades, this 2016 will accompany roasted pigeon, beef fillet, rack of lamb, royal hare, or cuisine centered around black truffle.
Grape varieties: 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc
