1997 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
1997 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Upon revisiting the 1997 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, I am compelled to narrate the tale of a vintage that stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this esteemed Pomerol estate. This particular year was marked by climatic capriciousness, which presented vignerons across Bordeaux with a mosaic of challenges.
A Vintage Carved by the Elements
The growing season for the 1997 vintage was anything but straightforward, fluctuating between extremes. Yet, Chateau L'Evangile demonstrated their consummate skill in harnessing the unpredictable nature of the season to produce a merlot blend that is both lusciously ripe and endowed with an underlying firmness.
Distinctiveness Defined in a Bottle
In my recent tasting, the 1997 vintage effused an olfactory ballet of blackberry compôte and spiced plums, underlain with hints of truffle – evocative of a traditional Pomerol profile yet singular in its expression due to the idiosyncrasies of the year. On the palate, it conveys maturity with tempered tannins and an endearing earthiness balanced by a still-vibrant acidity, culminating in a finish that lingers with a stately grace.
The calibre of this wine substantiates its position as an alluring option for fine wine investors. Its journey from a season fraught with tumult to a state of elegance is emblematic of Pomerol’s enduring value in any portfolio.
The Investment Perspective
While some may overlook this particular vintage in favour of more heralded years, those who recognise the nuances that define each harvest will find much to appreciate in the 1997 L'Evangile. As investors often seek rarity and distinctiveness, this wine provides an intriguing narrative and sensorial experience that contributes positively to its investment potential.
In summary, one cannot help but admire how remarkably this wine encapsulates its own unique chronicle—a vintage shaped by weather's whim has been captured deftly by Chateau L'Evangile’s expert craft. It exudes Pomerol typicity while boasting characteristics which undeniably distinguish it within the verticals of this venerated label.
Market price (GBP)
£1,170.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
130
Scores and tasting notes
A pure, truffle and black raspberry-scented nose with oak in the background defines the classic style of l'Evangile. Nearly outstanding, this sexy, ripe, medium-bodied wine offers gorgeous levels of fruit, not a great deal of density, length, or tannin, but plenty of near-term appeal. Many consumers will score this offering higher on the pleasure meter than the above rating might suggest as it is very seductive. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000
Tasted next to Clinet '97, this is certainly the better wine. A much deeper colour, more youthful. The nose has a touch of graphite and gravel inflecting the black fruits: good definition and lift, with a touch of espresso developing in the glass. The palate is full-bodied with good structure, the Cabernet seems quite ripe rendering this Left Bank in style. Reserved towards the finish, lacking a little flesh with a tobacco lingering on the aftertaste. Austere for L'Evangile but quite attractive. Drink now-2012. Tasted September 2006.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2008