2009 Angelus
By Chateau Angelus
2009 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
Reflecting upon the 2009 Angelus from Chateau Angelus summons remembrances of a vintage that stands as a paramount example of Saint-Emilion’s ability to redefine the upper echelons of fine wine. The year was marked by ideal climatic conditions that culminated in wines of profound structure and longevity - attributes that are thrillingly encapsulated in this exceptional offering.
Climate's Crucial Role in Crafting Excellence
The year 2009 was graced with near-perfect weather conditions in Bordeaux. Relatively dry, sunny days coupled with cool evenings during the latter part of the growing season ensured a steady maturation of grapes. These factors have birthed a powerful and opulent Angelus, infusing its classic Merlot lineage with an additional layer of complexity and finesse.
A Vintage Imbued with Distinction
On the palate, the 2009 Angelus narrates a tale of its superb terroir - a virtuoso performance by both Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The generous warmth of the year is reflected gracefully in its dark fruit profile; blackberry, plum, and a hint of cherry. Simultaneously, the tannins, though substantial, are silken – intricately woven into the fabric of the wine. Ancillary whispers of espresso and dark chocolate adorn its finish, creating a symphony for the senses - evocative and enduring.
This 2009 prowess is apt for any serious wine investment portfolio; it's a marked specimen from an illustrious vintage known for wines that remarkably stand the test of time.
Investment-Worthy Elegance
To discerning collectors and investors alike, I impart that the 2009 Angelus is not merely a testament to what was unequivocally one of Saint-Emilion's finest vintages. It is an embodiment of expert vine management and precision winemaking at Chateau Angelus. A wine with such magnetism is bound for a storytale journey in both glass and value, promising an arresting experience now and immense potential for those who appreciate its worth as time weaves its magic.
Market price (HKD)
HK$37,595.15
12x75cl
Highest score
99
POP score
207
Scores and tasting notes
Blended of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet colored 2009 Angélus sings of blackberry preserves, warm black cherries, stewed plums and dried herbs with hints of Chinese five spice, fragrant earth, truffles and new leather. Full, rich, spicy and decadent in the mouth, it has a plush, velvety texture and well-knit freshness, finishing very long with tons of spicy layers.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 14 March 2019
A candidate for one of the finest Angelus produced to date (and there have been many, including 1989, 1990, 2000 and 2005), this blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc was fashioned from tiny yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare. It boasts a black/purple color along with a gorgeous perfume of blueberry liqueur, spring flowers and graphite. In the mouth, notes of incense and cassis also emerge from this velvety-textured, full-bodied, intensely concentrated 2009. With silky tannins, low acidity and spectacular purity, texture and depth, it is already approachable (although I’m sure proprietor Hubert de Bouard would think drinking it now is akin to infanticide), but should keep for 20-30+ years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #199 February 2012
Gorgeous nose of crushed blackberries with bramble berries and sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and polished tannins. Compacted texture. Long, long finish. Try in 2020.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 14th 2012
Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. There is wonderful clarity on the nose of the Angelus 2009: baked cherry, kirsch, honeyed notes and a touch of violet. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. There is a lovely grainy texture with hints of sweet toffee infusing the plush red fruit. There is good tension and superb vigour on the finish. Excellent. Tasted January 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013