Angelus, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2011, 750ml
The Gastronomic Success: Freshness and Complexity
The 2011 Château Angélus is a triumph of winemaking. While 2011 was a challenging year for Bordeaux, Hubert de Boüard produced a wine that transcended the vintage conditions. By relying heavily on perfectly ripened Cabernet Franc, Angélus avoided the greenness found elsewhere, delivering a wine of structure and "nervous" energy.
This is not the fruit bomb of 2009; it is a wine of intellect and savory depth. It offers a "classic" Bordeaux profile—lower in alcohol, higher in acidity, and driven by earth and spice rather than sweetness. It is currently in a beautiful spot where the tannins have integrated, making it an exceptional companion for the dining table.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Fresh and lifted. The nose is less about jammy fruit and more about savory complexity. Expect aromas of wild raspberry, bramble, and red plum, interwoven with distinct notes of wet earth, tobacco leaf, truffle, and spicy herbs.
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Palate: Medium-bodied and focused. The palate is defined by a vibrant acidity that cuts through rich foods. The fruit is crunchy and red-toned, supported by firm, grainy tannins that give the wine an upright posture.
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Finish: A clean, saline finish with lingering notes of cedar and graphite.
Technical Details
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Vintage: 2011
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Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
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Blend: ~60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc
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Alcohol: 13.5%
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Critical Acclaim: 94 Points (Wine Enthusiast), 93 Points (Robert Parker), 93 Points (James Suckling)
Serving & Pairing Recommendations
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Drinking Window: Now through 2030.
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Decanting: Recommended 1 hour. The wine needs a little air to soften the structure, but it is ready to go.
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Serving Temperature: Serve at 60–62°F (15.5–16.5°C).
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Food Pairing: This is the ultimate steakhouse wine. Its acidity and structure cut through fat beautifully. Pair it with fatty ribeye, lamb chops, or duck confit. It also works surprisingly well with tomato-based Italian dishes due to its acidity.
Collector's Note The 2011 vintage represents an excellent entry point into the Angélus portfolio. Because the vintage lives in the shadow of 2009/2010, the price remains accessible. It allows you to enjoy the pedigree of a Premier Grand Cru Classé "A" estate without the premium price of a "Century Vintage."