1990 Angelus
By Chateau Angelus
1990 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
Embarking upon the storied terrain of Bordeaux’s right bank, we encounter the 1990 Angelus from Chateau Angelus with much anticipation. This particular vintage stands as a testament to the prowess of Saint-Emilion's terroir and the masterful hands that brought it to life in an era when this chateau's name began to resonate with vinous excellence.
Epochal Elegance: A Vintage Fulfilled
The year 1990 was lauded for its warm summer and ideal harvest conditions in Saint-Emilion, culminating in wines of both power and finesse. In the bottle, the 1990 Angelus eloquently expresses this harmonious climatic ballet. Its depth of colour, a dark and inviting garnet, heralds the opulence that awaits within.
The nose is a rich tapestry of blackberry compote, tobacco leaf, and truffles, aged to mellifluous maturity. Upon the palate, one is enraptured by layers of dark fruit, spiced plum and hints of chocolate – a meritorious representation of the Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend that has come to define this illustrious label.
The Investment Potential of a Prestigious Vintage
For fine wine investors seeking assurance beyond the genteel pleasure of tasting, the 1990 Angelus presents an excellent anchor. Its ascent to peak maturity has followed a graceful arc, showing no sign of abating soon. The wine’s structure is still magnificently robust, suggesting potential longevity that could extend its investment horizon significantly – attributes keenly observed during vertical tastings.
Thus, as one reflects on the pantheon of exceptional Bordeaux vintages, the 1990 Angelus from Chateau Angelus confidently claims its space amongst them. As it continues to enchant aficionados and investors alike with its composed complexity and impeccable balance, ensuring its prominence for those immersed in the liquid tapestry of fine wine lore.
Market price (GBP)
£5,780.00
12x75cl
Highest score
99
POP score
304.21
Scores and tasting notes
Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, the 1990 Angélus comes barreling out of the glass with big, bold, beautiful aromas of rose oil, cloves, smoked meats and licorice over a core of baked black plums, crème de cassis and raspberry pie plus hints of new leather and tobacco leaf. The palate is a full-on rich, powerful, full-bodied blockbuster, featuring bags of pure red and black fruit preserves layers and an incredible floral undercurrent, supported by plush tannins and lively freshness, finishing with epic length and depth. It's extraordinary to experience right now and yet should easily cellar for another 20+ years.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 22 October 2020
This blockbuster, blue/purple-colored wine boasts an exceptional nose of subtle licorice, menthol, creme de cassis, blackberries, and hints of coffee and charcoal. Full-bodied, flamboyant, and opulent, with low acidity and sweet tannin, it still seems young at age 19. Expansive and full, wine lovers will argue for decades to come which is better, the sensational 1990 or the equally terrific 1989. It should continue to drink beautifully for 20-25 years. Release price:($480.00/case)
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #183 June 2009
Tasted at Farr Vintners' vertical from ex-chateau magnum. The 1990 has always been and still is a humdinger of a wine. The nose explodes from the glass with glorious aromas of black cherries, creme de cassis, menthol and bacon fat, all with supremely fine delineation. Just give it a few swirls and there are some gorgeous gamey/Southern Rhone-like scents. The palate is full-bodied, decadent, beautifully balanced with sensual mouthfeel: hints of savoury fruit, Asian spice, white pepper and audacious, fennel-tinged finish. Delicious, but just pipped by the '89s breeding today. Tasted October 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2012