Robert Parker (98)
Composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Angélus was harvested from the 13th of September until the 4th of October. Deep garnet-purple colored, it sashays out of the glass with gregarious scents of Morello cherries, lilacs, chocolate box and potpourri with a core of Black Forest cake, blueberry crumble, fragrant soil and menthol. Medium to full-bodied, the intensity on the palate builds from delicate, beguiling nuances with ethereal weight to a full-on fireworks display of flavor sparks, framed by fantastic freshness and very finely pixilated tannins, finishing long, layered and invigorating.
James Suckling (98)
An extremely refined and sharpened Angelus with super fine tannins and sweet ripe fruit in the center palate. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and so very polished. Silky. Very subtle. Bright blue fruit, black fruit and stones. Supple and minerally. 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc.
Jancis Robinson (18)
Tasted blind. Subtle and lifted nose. Lots of tannin on the end but nuanced fruit – and some coolness – on the way there. Really ripe but fresh fruit. Neat. Superior. (JR)
Vinous (97)
The 2019 Angélus has a Cabernet Franc-driven nose, touches of Earl Grey and ash infusing the almost sultry black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, taut and crisp, quite a fine arching structure that delivers wonderful tension and mineralité on the finish. Serious. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Based on a final blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Château Angélus is knockout stuff, and while I'm not sure it matches the perfect 2018, it's not far off. Gorgeous notes of redcurrants, blueberries, sandalwood, dried flowers, vanilla, and forest floor are just some of its nuances, and it hits the palate with medium to full body, a perfectly balanced, seamless mouthfeel, beautifully ripe tannins, and a great, great finish. It doesn't have the sheer weight or richness of, say, the 1998, 2000, 2005, or even the 2009, but it doesn't lack for intensity or power, and it’s just a beautiful example of modern-day Saint-Emilion. It's already approachable (this was best on day two) yet will keep for another 30+ years.
BOW (9.25)
