2011 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
2011 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2011 vintage from Chateau L'Evangile beckons the connoisseur with its notable triumph over what was, undeniably, a challenging year for Bordeaux vintners. This particular harvest precipitated a diligent dance with nature’s whims, encapsulating a season where meticulous vineyard management was non-negotiable. It is within this crucible of meticulous care that the 2011 L'Evangile was born—its individuality underscored by the adversity of its vintage.
Resilience and Finesse: Wine Investment Gold
Investing in the right Bordeaux vintage necessitates an understanding of the year's unique climate profile alongside the winemakers' skill. Chateau L'Evangile’s storied expertise shines through in their 2011 bottling—a testament to their commitment to excellence despite Mother Nature’s curveballs. The illustrious estate offers assurance to investors that even in less exalted years, their wines possess the poise and potential to flourish.
A Vintage Speaks: The Narratives of 2011
The mercurial weather of 2011 gave rise to a wine that required both patience and precision on the part of Chateau L'Evangile’s artisans. When approached with sensitivity, Pomerol's distinct terroir can produce liquid jewels—a combination of Merlot's plushness and Cabernet Franc's structural finesse—and so it is with this vintage.
The wine uncloaks a tapestry of deep red and black fruits melded with an earthiness that whispers of truffles and wet forest floor. New oak lends framework but never overpowers; its touch is judicious, leaving room for the wine's intrinsic character to converse unhindered with the palate. The finish? An eloquent statement of length and harmony which will undoubtedly further integrate as the years unfold.
In conclusion, while some vintages bask in immediate adulation, others, like the 2011 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, are sculpted by time’s passage and diligence. For investors willing to embrace a narrative woven through tenacity in winemaking and reward those vintages which defy and rise above seasonal climatic challenges, this bottle marks a prudent addition to any discerning portfolio. It stands as one part ode to Pomerol's enduring legacy and one part testimony to human perseverance and vinicultural mastery.
Market price (HKD)
HK$11,320.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
90.77
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted en primeur at the property with Jean-Pascal Vazart. The L'Evangile 2011 is a blend of 94% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc picked between 6th with the young vines and 21st September and 19th to 21st September respectively cropped at 32hl/ha. It has 13.6 degrees alcohol and a pH of 3.7, an IPT of 76. As usual, this cru is always taciturn at first and so I leave my sample for a few minutes before writing any notes. It has a voluptuous, sensual bouquet with pure vanillary red berry fruit that reminds me of the 1995. The palate is medium-bodied with a nubile texture with supple toasty red fruit that is struck through with crisp acidity and a fine coca-tinged off-dry finish that displays persistency and a pastille-like residual sweetness. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
A young 2011 with lots of wood on the nose and plenty of plum character. Full to medium body, with velvety tannins and medium-fruity finish. Very polished texture. Try in 2015.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014
The grand vin, the 2011 l'Evangile exhibits a dark ruby color with purple nuances as well as noticeable acidity, a streamlined, crisp, elegant, mid-weight style, red and black fruits, light tannin and a fresh, vibrant mouthfeel. It is a blend of 94% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #200 April 2012
The grand vin, the 2011 l’Evangile exhibits a dark ruby color with purple nuances as well as noticeable acidity, a streamlined, crisp, elegant, mid-weight style, red and black fruits, light tannin and a fresh, vibrant mouthfeel. It is a blend of 94% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. By the way, this 55-acre estate is now slightly larger than when the Rothschilds first acquired it as they have purchased 15 acres from La Croix de Gay.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 25 April 2012