1989 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
1989 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 1989 vintage from the illustrious terrains of Pomerol represents a profound expression of the appellation's ability to produce wines of magical opulence and finesse. The 1989 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile epitomises such a vintage, which stands as one of the most prodigious in the last half-century.
A Vintage That Breathes Rarity and Refinement
The season's conditions were quintessential for near-perfection, with a warm spring followed by a spell of dry yet hot summer days and cool nights—ideal for the estate's Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines. Such climatic blessings have bequeathed upon the 1989 L'Evangile a textural richness, with layered complexity that is a testament to its time-honoured crafting.
Embarking on an Exquisite Taste Journey
Upon decanting, the wine exudes an intensely aromatic bouquet with notes of ripe black cherries, truffles, and a subtle hint of violet. Swirling in the glass reveals further profundities: leather, cigar box, and an enchanting earthiness that adjoins seamlessly with polished tannins to construct a grand architectural palate. On the finish, one experiences an elongated melange of dark fruit compote interlaced with a minerality that sings of the Pomerol terroir.
The passage of time has gracefully sculpted the structure of this vintage; it now stands at a magnificent point in its drinking window. The serious collector will discern its potential not merely as an oenological marvel but also as an investable asset that echoes the prestige of its provenance.
A Summation of Enological Excellence
In summation, the 1989 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile is a consummate Pomerol offering—a beacon that radiates through the decades to conspicuously declare its standing amidst Bordeaux's finest vintages. Its enduring poise and intricate depth are compelling aspects for any collection or investment portfolio.
Market price (USD)
$3,850.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
196.88
Scores and tasting notes
The 1989 is probably the best L'Evangile of that decade. It has a scintillating pure bouquet with dark plum and cranberry fruit, those distant notes of peat and heather straight out of a Jane Austen novel. The palate is wonderfully balanced with more glycerin than the previous bottle. It feels so fleshy and corpulent in the mouth with the Cabernet Fran lending the backbone that should see it age for another decade at least. Outstanding. Drink now-2030. Tasted October 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Sep 2013
I have been a massive fan of the 1989 Château L'Evangile for many years - the best wine of the decade when it was still under the ownership of the redoubtable Mme. Ducasse, before selling a majority share to Eric de Rothschild in 1990. It fulfils all expectations here with its intense nose of blackberries, raspberry coulis, clove and wild heather. The most surprising aspect is just how backward the aromatics seem to be. The palate is extremely well balanced with fine tannin. The acidity is perfectly pitched with layers of dark berry fruit, black truffle and dried herbs - très Pomerol. Adorned with a velvety texture, is cruises towards a Merlot-driven finish that is one of the most powerful you will find in Pomerol this vintage. On this showing, you could cellar it for another 5-6 years; if not, I strongly recommend a long decant. Tasted January 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 July 2016
Fully mature and not likely to improve, although certainly capable of lasting another 10-15 years, the dark plum/garnet-colored 1989 l'Evangile (considerable amber exists at the edge) offers a nose of toffee, caramel, malt chocolate, sweet black cherry, and currant fruit. The wine has low low acidity and plump, fleshy, forward appeal. With sweet tannin and a ripe, moderately endowed, long finish, it has nowhere near the weight, aging potential, or volume of the 1990, but it is still a top-class effort. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015. Last tasted, 11/02.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 4th Edition Jan 2003