Chateau Angelus   Angelus

2008 Angelus

By Chateau Angelus

2008 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux

In the pantheon of Bordeaux's venerable estates, Chateau Angelus commands a staunch legion of enthusiasts. The 2008 Angelus stands as a paragon of the estate's resilient character in a year that demanded the utmost expertise from vintners.

 

Vintage Valor: Triumph Over Challenge

The 2008 vintage in Saint-Emilion was no mere walk through the vineyards. It was a year that wrestled with climatic vicissitudes, giving way to wines that showcase the astute artistry of their creators. Amidst an erratic growing season, the stoic vines of Chateau Angelus bore fruit that encapsulates both vigour and finesse. A more restrained cousin to its opulent neighbors—in the likes of the lauded 2005 or ample 2009—the 2008 vintage excels with an understated elegance.

 

A Vintner's Veracious Vision

From an assemblage that honours the classic Merlot-Cabernet Franc relationship, the 2008 Angelus carves out its own distinguished space in a wine investor's portfolio. Its aromatic tapestry is dense and precise—a mélange of blackfruits interwoven with an earthy underpinning, and a hint of oak that speaks less of dominance and more of whispered wisdom.

The palate reveals aristocratic layers of flavour, imparting dark cherry and subtle cacao notes that carry through to an enduring finish—it is both a testament to the estate’s terroir and the deft hand required under such trying conditions.

If I were to converse with this vintage, I'd commend its resilience and celebrate its triumph over adversity which is beautifully reflected in every sip. It is complex yet approachable, earnest yet seductive—a Bordeaux lover's sonnet composed in seasons of toil.

 

The Lyrical Libation: A Summary

The 2008 Angelus is a thoughtful investment piece for connoisseurs seeking wines with a narrative as rich as their flavour profile. Be it as part of an eclectic collection or a singular treasure sought for its portrayal of vinous victory against nature's challenges, it stands dignified and deserving of attention and admiration—now and into its mature years.

Current market price

$4,950.00

12x75cl

Highest score

93

POP score

229.23

Scores and tasting notes

93

A stunning success, this 7,000-case blend of 58% Merlot and 42% Cabernet Franc reveals a beautiful nose of black currants, black cherries, loamy soil and forest flora. Full-bodied, this deep, chewy, savory, broadly-flavored 2008 possesses sweet tannin, decent acidity and a long finish. Its 14% alcohol content is nearly as high as the 2009's and 2010's 14.5%. Already accessible, it should continue to age effortlessly for 20-25 years.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #194 May 2011

93

A strong effort in this under-appreciated vintage that sold for a song, the 2008 Angelus is still young and vibrant, with a dense purple color and a sweet kiss of chocolate-infused blackberries and blackcurrants. There are some floral notes, as well as forest floor and lead pencil nuances. Medium to full-bodied with ripe tannin and outstanding equilibrium and purity, this is another beauty from a much more challenging vintage. Drink now through 2030.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2015

93

Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. The Angelus 2008 has a fascinating nose, this a little more open than the magnum tasted at the vertical the previous October and revealing its pixelated nature: aromas of blackcurrant, kirsch, a touch of creme de cassis with marmalade in the background. The palate is full-bodied with layers of creamy dark fruit and shows of Hubert de Bouard’s trademark silky tannins, though I feel that is reflecting the winemaking rather than a vineyard or terroir.Tasted January 2012.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012

89-92

Tobacco, berry and orange peel character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a clean finish. Refined and balanced.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com

Vintage performance