2006 Angelus

A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2006 Angelus has a deep garnet color, with a touch of brick. It offers fragrant scents of roses and iris bulb, giving way to a core of kirsch, plum preserves, and mulberries, plus hints of tobacco, underbrush, and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a velvety texture and just enough freshness to support the generous, slowly developing black fruits, finishing minerally.

Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London. The 2006 Chateau 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.