2008 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
2008 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Basking in the glow of an illustrious winemaking history, the 2008 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile represents a quintessential chapter in the Pomerol narrative. Notably, the vintage is a testament to the resilience and precision of careful vineyard and cellar management, particularly given the challenges faced during the growing season.
Mercurial Climatic Conditions and Mastery in Vinification
The 2008 vintage was as temperamental as it was triumphant. The season experienced erratic weather patterns, casting shadows of uncertainty. A wet summer was salvaged by an Indian summer, essential for ripening the grapes to achieve a harmonious balance. The outcomes were nothing short of remarkable; this particular harvest demonstrates how adversity can underscore the very brilliance of Pomerol's terroir.
Upon tasting, the 2008 L'Evangile unfurls with complex layers, indicative of both its heritage and that year's climatic dance. The wine's deep ruby embrace surrenders to a bouquet of truffles and dark fruits, cradled by refined tannins and an earthy minerality that are the hallmarks of Pomerol's iron-rich clay soils.
A Vintage Worthy of Patience and Investment
The passage of time has cuddled the 2008 L'Evangile into a state where it now exudes a finesse that can elevate any connoisseur's collection. Its ageing potential remains inducive for fine wine investors looking towards long-term maturation. The providential turnaround from meteorological austerity to opulence solidifies this wine as a compelling addition to any investment portfolio.
In encapsulation, one could argue that few vintages have exhibited such graceful defiance against climatic challenges as has the 2008 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile. It embodies Pomerol's resilience, epitomising both region and vintage with audacious elegance. A collectible par excellence, it stands among its contemporaries with discreet majesty, inviting discerning palates to explore its depths.
Market price (HKD)
HK$14,701.59
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
109.86
Scores and tasting notes
A 2,700-case blend of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc cropped at a low 27 hectoliters per hectare (compare that with 39 hectoliters per hectare in 2009 and 31 in 2010), this superb claret was aged 18 months in 75% new French oak. Mulberry, spring flower, black cherry and raspberry characteristics as well as hints of spice and coffee emerge from this full-bodied, opulent, structured beauty. It should age effortlessly for 15-20 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 1 May 2011
Chocolate and berry and rich with gorgeous nose. Plums and berries. Full and super soft with a lovely velvety texture. Loads going on. Builds on the palate with a lovely depth of fruit and balance. A beauty.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, December 20th 2010
Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. Like Chateau Lafleur, this wine detests blind tastings and often comes across as rather “curmudgeonly”, deprived of its due attention apropos decanting etc. Unsurprisingly, the l’Evangile 2008 is a little reticent on the nose: floral red fruit, very Merlot dominated with no Cabernet Franc. It opens nicely in the glass and shows real precision. The palate has a touch of piquancy on the entry, sharp citric acidity, nice tension even though it is just a little abrasive towards the finish. It is pinched at the moment but it should open up and indeed, a second bottle was more animated and tense. Tasted January 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012