Wines Saint-Émilion R - Château L'Angélus - 1988

Viniou Reviews

The 1988 Château L'Angélus Cuvée from Saint-Émilion is a splendid representation of Bordeaux's renowned Le Libournais region. This wine, with its deep ruby hue, is a blend that embodies the rich, complex character of the region, primarily featuring Merlot complemented by Cabernet Franc. The 1988 vintage is celebrated for its balanced maturity, having benefited from a harmonious growing season. Saint-Émilion’s limestone-rich soils and temperate climate contribute significantly to its depth and ageing potential. Château L'Angélus, with a storied history dating back to the 18th century, is known for producing wines with exceptional richness and longevity.

For a culinary pairing, this Saint-Émilion red would excel alongside a classic beef Wellington or a rack of lamb with rosemary. Its complex layers of flavour would also brilliantly accompany a platter of aged cheeses, such as Comté or Roquefort. For a regional touch, consider pairing it with duck confit, a dish that complements its rich and refined profile.

When it comes to tasting this wine, aim for a serving temperature of around 18°C (64°F). Decanting for approximately an hour allows the wine to aerate, revealing its intricate bouquet. Begin your tasting by observing the wine's colour and clarity, followed by inhaling its aromatic layers of truffle, leather, and dark fruit. Finally, savour its balanced palate, noting the elegant tannins and long finish that characterize this vintage.