1998 L'Evangile
By Chateau L'Evangile
The 1998 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Deep within the realm of Pomerol's mercurial clime lies an evocative narrative enveloped in a bottle of the 1998 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile. This particular year graces the annals of Bordeaux's legacy, not by mere coincidence but through the artful orchestration of nature's serendipity and the vintner's deft touch.
The Essence of a Remarkable Vintage
Curating any discerning cellar, one would be remiss without the inclusion of a vintage as compelling as the 1998 L'Evangile. The season's providential harmony between sun and soil bequeathed a crop that exudes profound complexity and an admirable structure. A maturation period that has spanned over two decades has lent this vintage an olfactory tapestry ripe with truffles, worn leather, and tertiary notes indicative of its elegant evolution.
Striking a Chord with Investors
As a wine investment savant, one understands that the value appreciation potential of such a seasoned vintage is impeccable. The 1998 has steadily climbed the esteem ladder to occupy a coveted status among collectors and investors alike. The consummate balance struck by this vintage—of fruit ripeness and acidity—portends longevity and ensures continued maturation potential.
With a palate graced by velvety tannins and an amalgam of dark fruit layered with spicy undertones, the 1998 L'Evangile proclaims its dignified place within Pomerol's finest pours. Each sip invites reflection upon that year when the elements conspired to create not merely wine, but a testament to time-captured grace.
As I consider the 1998 L'Evangile from Chateau L'Evangile in retrospect, it’s clear that this vintage not only epitomises the essence of Pomerol’s terroir but stands testament to fortuitous climatic conditions that are seldom rivalled. Wise investors would do well to seek out this sumptuous wine, which surely promises to delight palates while bolstering portfolios with its esteemed provenance.
Market price (USD)
$2,420.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
132
Scores and tasting notes
Deep garnet-brick colored and blended of 72% Merlot and 28% Cabernet Franc, the nose of the 1998 L'Evangile has the most intensely perfumed scents of potpourri, fallen leaves, Chinese five spice, camphor and new leather over a core of crème de cassis, prunes, star anise, dusty soil and tobacco with wafts of dried lavender and cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, rich and decadent in the mouth, it has layer upon layer of spice and savory notions with a plush frame and refreshing lift on the finish.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 May 2018
A deep ruby/garnet colour. The Cabernet component is more pronounced here than it was two years ago: blackberry, graphite, sous-bois, cedar and a touch of damp moss. With time in glass it develops a touch of oyster shell. The palate is full-bodied, real density to it married with superb acidity but like L’Eglise-Clinet it is ferociously backward and demanding patience, years of the stuff. It does not quite have the tension or symmetry of the L’Eglise-Clinet whilst I would prefer more finesse towards the finish. But undoubtedly this needs another decade for it to mellow out, the finish dry and masculine, not dissimilar to a Chateau Latour. Tasted March 2008.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2008
A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc aged in 45% new oak, this terrific l'Evangile is stuffed with concentrated blackberry and raspberry fruit. There is also an acacia-like floral character that gives the wine even more complexity. Notes of toffee, licorice, and truffles add to the aromatic fireworks. The wine is full-bodied, with superb purity as well as moderate tannin in the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2020+.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #134 Apr 2001