Chateau Angelus   Angelus

2006 Angelus

By Chateau Angelus

2006 Angelus from Château Angelus, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

The 2006 vintage from Château Angelus stands as a beacon of excellency in a year that challenged even the most esteemed vignerons of Bordeaux. The raw meteorological interplay carved out a season of contrast and complexity, leaving its indelible signature on the wines birthed from this time.

 

A Harvest Against the Odds

Plagued by climatic pendulum swings, 2006 could have spelled disaster. However, through meticulous vineyard management and astute winemaking insight at Château Angelus, their eponymous wine not only survived but thrived. The result is a vintage that captures an alluring expression of poise amidst adversity—a narrative seasoned wine investors search for with vigour, knowing it signals both rarity and distinction.

 

The Essence of 2006 Captured

In the glass, the 2006 Angelus articulates the narrative of its challenging vintage with aplomb. There is a confident core of blackberry and plum fruit that dialogues with whispers of truffle and smoked earth—a symposium moderated by mature tannins. This exceptional Saint-Émilion reveals tertiary notes which have emerged gracefully over time, presenting seductive hints of leather and fennel seeds.

The Château's masterful approach can be credited for not just salvaging a tricky harvest but elevating it to create a remarkable wine. Wisely timed picking ensured the Merlot and Cabernet Franc did not succumb to autumn rains, preserving their innate vibrancy and structure.

This 2006 Angelus is not merely a wine; it is a testament to the alchemy between human endeavour and climatic will—a narrative that enriches any discerning investor's portfolio.

 

Investment-worthy Elegance

As one contemplates the long-term potential of wine investments, it becomes clear why this intricate 2006 vintage from Château Angelus is in high standing. It offers composure amidst the storm, showcasing how expertise can harness nature's fickleness to produce an investment-grade wine that will captivate for years to come.

In essence, this opulent Saint-Émilion promises more than just hedonistic pleasure; it's an embodiment of triumph over trial—a jewel in any collector's cache. Those who seek to marry financial foresight with enological enchantment will find solace in securing the 2006 Angelus as part of their investment strategy.

Current market price

$5,425.23

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

203.13

Scores and tasting notes

96

Tasted at Farr Vintners' vertical from ex-chateau magnum. The 2006 Angelus has a very deep but pure colour. It has a pixelated nose, the same that it has had from its youth, great definition and lift with the Merlot more in evidence now: black cherries, loganberry, a touch of orange-blossom and tangible mineralite. The palate is very crisp with a firm backbone, perhaps needing a couple more years to fully integrate, but it bounds along like a yapping puppy from start to finish. Certainly not a blockbuster Angelus, but beautifully realized and pixelated. Tasted October 2011.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2012

95

A spectacular effort (what's new?), this brilliant offering from proprietor Hubert de Bouard is another classic. A blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Franc, it boasts an inky/purple color as well as a sumptuous bouquet of creosote, blueberry pie, espresso roast, blackberries, and graphite. Extremely full-bodied and stunningly rich with a multi-layered texture, sweet tannin, and a 45-second finish, this exceptional 2006 is one of the great wines of St.-Emilion. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009

94

Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London. The 2006 Château Angelus, a blend of 47% Cabernet Franc, 50% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, has a very perfumed bouquet with scents of blueberry, cassis, crushed violets and just a touch of mushroom. This is very generous. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth, slightly toasty entry. The acidity is quite low compared to other 2006 Saint Emilions, but there is harmony here and the tannins seem very fine. There is real density on the finish, although I was just seeking a little more delineation to come through. Give this another two or three years in bottle. Tasted January 2016.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016

Vintage performance