1995 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
1995 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
In the world of fine wines, the 1995 vintage of L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile parades a singular charm that has steadily burgeoned through the years, maturing gracefully like a seasoned virtuoso. As an insightful observer of Pomerol's climatic ballet, I've seen few vintages pirouette with as much finesse as '95. A solid season with ideal weather conditions laid the foundation for this wine's triumphant character.
A Vintage Performance
The 1995 L'Evangile is an investment-grade contender - each sip brings a persuasive argument for its place in any judicious collector's cellar. The year gifted Bordeaux with clarity and balance, a tranquility that translated directly to the bottle. It was as if, in '95, nature itself sorted the acidity, tannins and fruit in perfect harmony. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend from this eminent Pomerol estate forged a wine with graceful aging potential.
Elemental Elegance
On pouring, the 1995 L'Evangile reveals a remarkable garnet hue, hinting at mature notes without feigning antiquity. This wine does not rush; rather, it beckons with dignity. A composite aroma breathes scents of truffle, underbrush and a confit of ripe cherries, all interlaced with a venerable earthiness that only Pomerol can deliver. The palate retains vitality, offering dried fruit mingling with hints of espresso and dark chocolate—a testament to the wine's adept construction and the estate’s undeviating commitment to quality.
Investors and connoisseurs alike will appreciate how this 1995 vintage captures a focused snapshot of the terroir’s spirit, carefully preserved yet vibrant after more than two decades. Such enduring elegance poises it as a compelling entrant to any portfolio.
Market price (GBP)
£1,470.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
122.5
Scores and tasting notes
This wine is closed, backward, and marginally less impressive than I thought from cask. It is still an outstanding l’Evangile that may prove to be longer-lived than the sumptuous 1990, but perhaps not as opulently-styled. It remains one of the year’s’s top efforts. The dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by aromas of minerals, black raspberries, earth, and spice. The bottled wine seems toned down (too much fining and filtration?), compared with the pre-bottling samples, which had multiple layers of flesh and flavor dimension. High tannin in the finish and plenty of sweet fruit on the palate suggest this wine will turn out to be extra special. Could it have been even better if the filters had been junked in favor of a natural bottling? I think so, yet that being said, the wine’s ferocious tannin level cannot conceal its outstanding ripeness, purity, and depth. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020. Last tasted, 10/02.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 2002
Tasted at Roberson's Pomerol tasting. This vintage of Chateau L'Evangile has always been a frustratingly perplexing, mercurial Pomerol and this bottle is not different. The nose is very strange, offering nothing at all at the beginning and then an earthy, slightly rubbery/reductive bouquet. Confusingly, the palate has much more to offer with a supple entry and rounded tannins. Dark cherries and dried orange peel, a touch of cranberry and a lovely harmonious long finish. It is such a pity about the nose because the palate is a joy. Tasted November 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2011