Viniou Reviews
Château Angélus 2009, in magnum format, is a remarkable expression of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage epitomises the luxurious style of the property. The 2009 harvest benefited from a warm, dry growing season, giving rise to intensely ripe fruit, concentration, and beautifully polished tannins. The terroir is marked by a blend of clay and limestone soils which bestow both power and finesse upon the wine. Vinification at Angélus is meticulous, with hand harvesting and careful plot selection, followed by fermentation and ageing in a high proportion of new French oak barrels, enhancing the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity.
The Saint-Émilion region, nestled on the right bank of Bordeaux, enjoys a temperate maritime climate moderated by the influences of the Dordogne River. This climate, combined with the distinctive clay-limestone soils, is particularly well-suited to Merlot, which flourishes here, providing richness and suppleness. The area boasts a long history of winemaking, dating back to Roman times, and Saint-Émilion is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its picturesque landscape and prestigious châteaux. The Grand Cru designation highlights wines that meet strict qualitative criteria and often represent the pinnacle of the appellation’s potential.
For food pairings, Château Angélus 2009 calls for dishes with depth and texture to match its opulence. Classic Bordeaux pairings such as roast lamb with garlic and rosemary or fillet of beef en croûte will marry beautifully with the wine’s plush fruit and refined tannins. Regional specialties like duck magret or a cep mushroom risotto will also complement the wine’s earthy undertones and complexity.
When serving this magnum, allow it to breathe for at least two hours to unlock its full aromatic profile and soften the tannins. Ideal tasting temperature lies between 17-18°C, which allows both the bouquet and palate to express the full nuance and elegance of this outstanding vintage.
