Viniou Reviews
Château Angélus 1974 is a remarkable specimen from the revered appellation of Saint-Émilion in the Bordeaux region of France. This wine is known for its intrinsic elegance and the harmonious blending of predominantly Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc, although the exact blend may vary year by year. The 1974 vintage faced significant climatic challenges, with a summer plagued by rain, yet the skilled winemakers at Château Angélus managed to create a wine that still offers a certain allure. The terroir of Saint-Émilion, characterised by its limestone and clay soil, provides the perfect foundation for wines that are simultaneously powerful and graceful, with the ability to age with poise over the decades.
The Bordeaux region has a storied wine history, epitomised by its diverse landscapes ranging from gravelly soils along the riverbanks to the limestone plateaus of the right bank, where Saint-Émilion is situated. This area benefits from a temperate maritime climate with significant seasonal variation, which traditionally allows for a long growing season essential for developing nuanced grape characteristics.
For dining, Château Angélus 1974 is best enjoyed with dishes that complement its structured depth. Consider pairing it with classic French fare such as a coq au vin or a duck confit, where the richness of the dishes will be enhanced by the wine's subtlety and elegance. The wine's maturity also accommodates savoury cheeses like a well-aged Comté or a creamy Brie de Meaux, which will highlight the wine's evolved flavours.
To fully appreciate Château Angélus 1974, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Such a temperature allows the wine to slowly reveal its complex bouquet, offering aromas of dark fruits mingled with earthy undertones, while on the palate, it can present subtle notes of spice and tobacco with fine, resolved tannins. Gently decanting this wine before service can also help to unfurl its full aromatic potential, providing a truly memorable tasting experience.
