2012 Angelus
By Chateau Angelus
The 2012 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
The prestigious 2012 Angelus from Chateau Angelus is a compelling testament to the resilience and adaptability of this acclaimed Bordeaux estate. The particular climatic conditions that shaped this vintage have coaxed from the vineyard a symphony of ripeness balanced by admirable structure—a performance worthy of attention from astute wine investors.
A Vintage Shaped by Mother Nature
Despite 2012 being marked by erratic weather patterns, with a challenging cold snap in the winter followed by a wet spring, Chateau Angelus managed to turn potential adversity into triumph. The late season's dry and sunny spell was the saving grace of this vintage, permitting an unhurried and precise harvest. It is within these tempered climatic trials that the 2012 vintage found its unique voice—structured, surprisingly fresh for such warmth in the autumn, and quietly confident in its fruit-laden delivery.
Experiencing the 2012 Angelus
The nose of the 2012 Angelus is a poetic interplay of ripe black cherry and subtle hints of truffle, entwined with undercurrents of graphite that pay homage to Saint-Emilion's chalky terroir. On the palate, this vintage strides forth with assurance; plush plum and cassis notes are elegantly encased within a cocoon of finely wrought tannins—an eloquent expression of the Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend that speaks in measured tones rather than grandiose shouts.
Now entering its optimum drinking window, this wine represents an attractive proposition for both connoisseurs and investors alike. Its poise and maturity underscore a narrative of impeccable viticulture and assertive winemaking evident in every sip.
An Investment-worthy Chronicle in a Glass
In summary, while not as flamboyant as other vintages, the 2012 Angelus exhibits a restrained elegance that will surely resonate with those who appreciate subtlety in strength. For individuals seeking to bolster their portfolio with wines that narrate a story of perseverance and finesse, adding the 2012 Angelus from Chateau Angelus to your collection would be a judicious choice indeed.
Market price (CAD)
$7,060.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
282.67
Scores and tasting notes
Owned by Hubert de Bouard, the 2012 Angelus was harvested between October 8-18, yields were 34 hectoliters per hectare, and the natural alcohol was over 14%. The final blend was 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the superstars of the vintage, the dense opaque purple/blue-colored 2012 offers up notes of barbecue smoke, graphite, charcoal, blueberries, blackberries, sweet cherries and forest floor. With terrific fruit intensity, a powerful, layered, multidimensional mouthfeel and full body, it should be drinkable at an early age given the sweetness of the tannin. It should easily evolve for 15-20 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206
This is powerful and rich with lots of blackberries and cherries. Loads of richness and intensity. We will see but shows loads of potential. Intense.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2013
Tasted blind as a vintage comparison at the Valandraud vertical, the 2012 Angelus has a forward and generous bouquet of mulberry, boysenberry, orange rind and slithers of tangerine. It is undoubtedly detailed and energetic, a subtle marine scent surfacing with continued aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with rounded and supple tannin, slightly honeyed in texture yet with a keen line of acidity running through it. Impressive body and mass, yet primal, surly and broody. Perhaps only now is it starting to flex its muscles. This is a well crafted and opulent Saint Emilion with a long future ahead and it may warrant a higher score in the future. Those who cellar this for over a decade will see this in full flight. Tasted December 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2017
A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc, picked from 8th October and 19th October, affected by the rains on the final days. They have not used optical sorting machine since the 2009 vintage, and use the Winery de pellanc, the Mistral (fan-blower) and a long vibrating table. I have to say straight away that I find much more clarity on the bouquet here than on the primeur sample of the 2011 this time last year - bright blackberry, raspberry leaf and minerals with hints of violet underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, quite sturdy tannins, crisp acidity, very fine focus and good precision on the finish. This could turn out to be one of the best wines of the appellation. Excellent. Tasted April 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013