2003 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
2003 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2003 vintage from Bordeaux's esteemed Pomerol region braced an extraordinary challenge—the scorching European summer that singularly redefined the fruits of the vine. The wines thus crafted carry the enigmatic story of struggle and triumphant adaptation. Foremost among these is the 2003 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, which navigated the intense climatic conditions with aplomb to yield a creation of profound complexity and deep resonance.
A Study in Resilience and Richness
In that storied year, the Merlot vines of Chateau L'Evangile faced near-ceaseless exposure to the sun's punishing ardour. Yet it is precisely this relentless solar embrace that translated into a lavish intensity within the grapes, reflected sumptuously in their resultant wine. The 2003 L'Evangile exudes a certain opulence in its profile—plum and blackberry fruits swathed lavishly in profound tannins and nuanced by notes of truffle and smoky earth, a paean to the terroir's unique ability to thrive under duress.
An Oenophile's Investment Delight
For investors seeking not only pleasure but also promise in their cellars, the 2003 L'Evangile offers a compelling narrative of survivorship and burgeoning legacy. This vintage, while undeniably robust in its youth, has evolved gracefully, unfurling layers of complexity that only time can bestow. In light of this, one perceives a vintage assuming its position as a judicious investment with each passing year, inviting connoisseurs and collectors alike to consider its storied journey from vine to vault.
In closing, one cannot escape the conclusion that the 2003 L'Evangile presents itself as a testament to resilience. Years since its exceptional birth wrought by an equally exceptional summer, it stands not merely as a beacon among fine wines but as a savvy asset in the world of wine investment—its narrative interwoven with unwavering quality and an echoed assurance from Chateau L'Evangile that speaks intimately to both palate and portfolio.
Market price (GBP)
£1,380.00
12x75cl
Highest score
88
POP score
172.5
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Bordeaux Index’s “10-Year On” tasting in London. I may have been mean towards this Pomerol stalwart in the past, or perhaps the wine is one of the few to have improved. The L’Evangile 2003 has a superior bouquet compared to its peers – better definition for a start with clean dark cherry, kirsch and raspberry fruit complemented by a distant scent of marmalade. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, quite lithe tannins. It is not a complex L’Evangile by a long way and it is afflicted by a slight monotony. However, there is a good structure here, better freshness and demonstrates some tension on the finish. Drink now. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013
The dark ruby-colored 2003 (which suffered from the hot weather in June, July, and August) is already revealing some lightening at the edge. This soft, round, sensual (12.8% alcohol) effort had to be harvested before it could achieve the texture, depth, and persistence of a profound l’Evangile such as 2000 or 1998. The charming, but superficial 2003 requires consumption during its first 7-8 years of life. As a postscript, readers should realize that major investments and extraordinary efforts in both the vineyard and cellar are being made at L’Evangile. I predict it will eventually rival Petrus and Lafleur as one of the finest wines of the appellation. The estate has also introduced a second wine called Blason, which permits them to cull out lots not good enough for the grand vin.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 23 April 2006