Château Angelus - Saint-Émilion 2009

In Saint-Émilion, on the right bank of the Bordeaux wine region in France, the renowned Château Angélus stands as a shining beacon of light and has brought forth centuries of winemaking, producing the most exceptional wines. This prestigious estate has a rich history, a dedication to quality, and a unique approach to winemaking that has earned it a place among the elite châteaux in the world.

The very soul of Château Angélus is rooted in the Angelus prayer, a tradition dating back to the fifteenth century. Nestled in a natural amphitheatre dominated by the majestic spires of three churches in Saint-Émilion, the vineyards resonate with the echoes of bells ringing the Angelus in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. This sacred rhythm sounded during the laborious days of those toiling in the vineyards, creating moments of reflection and meditation. The great French impressionist painter, Jean-François Millet, perfectly captured this spiritual interlude in his masterpiece, "The Angelus," now displayed at the Musée d'Orsay.

The tradition, instituted by Pope Callistus III in 1456 after a triumphant battle, mandated that all bells across Christendom toll daily to mark the Angelus prayer. This practice, a moment of gratitude and reflection, became the inspiration behind the symbolic bell that graces the label of Château Angélus bottles—a poignant reminder of the estate's spiritual heritage.

"Along with the 2005, the 2009 is the greatest Angelus I've tasted and is a perfect wine in every way. Based on 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc raised in (I believe) 100% new oak, its still youthful ruby/purple color is followed by an incredible perfume of crème de cassis and blueberry fruits as well as notes of white chocolate, Asian spices, flowery incense, and a hint of white truffle. Full-bodied and powerful, it still stays weightless and elegant on the palate, and as all truly great wines do, it offers an amazing amount of both hedonistic and intellectual pleasure. It has a wealth of tannins, incredible depth of fruit, and a finish that won't quit. Drink this magical, heavenly 2009 any time over the coming 20-30 years or more." - 100 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

"Blended of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet colored 2009 Angélus sings of blackberry preserves, warm black cherries, stewed plums and dried herbs with hints of Chinese five spice, fragrant earth, truffles and new leather. Full, rich, spicy and decadent in the mouth, it has a plush, velvety texture and well-knit freshness, finishing very long with tons of spicy layers." - 99 Points, Wine Advocate

Producer: Château Angelus

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux

Varietal: Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Appellation: Saint-Émilion

Vintage: 2009

Size: 750ml