2005 Angelus
By Chateau Angelus
The 2005 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The 2005 vintage in Bordeaux is spoken of with a hushed reverence, and The 2005 Angelus from Chateau Angelus stands as a compelling testament to this acclaimed year. The season was characterised by ideal weather conditions; an unhurried, warm spring was succeeded by a summer that oscillated between hot days and cooler nights, culminating in a September that allowed for leisurely and precise harvesting. These elements conspired to create a vintage that fused power with elegance, concentration with finesse.
A Vintage Defined By Balance And Brilliance
In the glass, The 2005 Angelus presents an opaque purple hue, whispering tales of density and depth before a sip is even taken. On the nose, it commands attention with an intricate tapestry of blackberry, plum and hints of cedar – underpinned by an intoxicating truffle allure that only years in the bottle can bestow. It brings forth a balanced complexity, enriched by a decade and a half of careful maturation.
The palate is graced with a similar narrative – layers unfold with each sip, revealing ripe dark fruit caressed by refined tannins. There's a weight to The 2005 Angelus from Chateau Angelus that speaks of its superb structure; yet it pirouettes on the tongue with an agility that betrays its muscularity. The finish: long, lingering, and layered with spicy wood tones and the slightest touch of mineral-driven terroir eloquence particular to Saint-Émilion's righteous soils.
An Investment-Worthy Saint-Émilion Star
For patrons looking to diversify their portfolios with stellar vintages, The 2005 Angelus offers not just a piece of Bordeaux history but also bears the marks of excellent investment potential. Its evolution over time showcases the unfaltering craftsmanship at Chateau Angelus. Interest in this particular vintage remains keen amongst connoisseurs and collectors alike, nodding not only to its present enjoyment but also promising returns for those who recognise the value in patience.
Decanting is urged to fully appreciate the symphony composed by The 2005 Angelus from Chateau Angelus; allow it to breathe, and it shall speak volumes about its exceptional origin and journey through time. As a vintage that effortlessly marries intensity with elegance, The 2005 Angelus remains one of the luminous stars in the firmament of fine wines from Bordeaux's Saint-Émilion region.
Market price (USD)
$5,830.00
12x75cl
Highest score
100
POP score
239
Scores and tasting notes
Truly great stuff, this wine performed at a three-digit level both in the horizontal tasting of 2005s in Baltimore, as well as in Montreal at this mini-vertical. This sensational, opaque, bluish/purple wine offers up notes of vanillin, spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, plus a touch of licorice. The wine hits the palate with a thunderous cascade of ripe, rich, concentrated fruit. It is full-bodied, multidimensional and layered. The tannins are beautifully integrated but still present, and the wood, acidity, alcohol, etc., are all beautifully assimilated in this magnificent, majestic vintage of Angelus. It can be drunk now, but it is still an adolescent and that suggests it has at least another 25-35 years of longevity.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2015
This 7,000 case blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc will rival or perhaps eclipse vintages such as 2000, 1998, 1990, and 1989. Its dense purple color is followed by an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, espresso roast, blackberries, blueberries, and a hint of wood. In spite of its thick texture, terrific acidity, high tannins, and enormous intensity as well as richness, it is surprisingly approachable, but given how slowly the 1989 and 1990 have aged, I would recommend cellaring it for 8-10 years. It should keep for three decades. A brilliant wine!
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #176 April 2008
Beautifully focused notes of figs and ripe fruit on the nose, this is very perfumed. A lot of material in this wine, the center palate is incredible, lasting for minutes. This is full-bodied and super silky with fine tannins. A pinpointed ball of fruit, think lychee, and hints of chocolate on the finish. Leave this for six to eight years, should be about right in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, May 1st 2012
The 2005 Angelus is a little more open than previous bottles. Lifted dark cherry, boysenberry and plum fruit with a slight tinny undercurrent and then that black olive tincture. The palate is medium-bodied with a lactic, chocolaty entry. Sweet and generous, though missing a little tension on the finish. Spicy and feral, this Angelus need several years taming in bottle. Side by side, I am beginning to prefer the 2009. Tasted December 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013