The 2000 Angelus, a Bordeaux blend from the prestigious region of Saint Emilion in France, is an illustrious wine that elicits admiration from even the most discerning of oenophiles. As the first vintage where the bottle was embossed with the château name, it carries a historic significance that only adds to its allure. The wine is a sublime marriage of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, delivering a robust yet elegantly balanced profile.
Upon the first pour, the wine unveils its deep garnet hue, displaying a healthy, vivid color that teases the sensory journey ahead. The nose is intense and concentrated, brimming with captivating aromas of crushed blackberries and cherries, underlaid by an earthy mineral presence and a hint of mint. The bouquet also whispers of wet earth, iron ore, and cigar box, melding with the more gourmand notes of leather, blackberry jam, and dried mulberries.
On the palate, the wine reveals its full-bodied character, enveloping the senses with a refined, silky texture. The taste is an orchestra of dark fruit and dark chocolate, with traces of coffee and a slight bitterness on the entry. As the wine breathes, a ferrous quality emerges, adding an intriguing layer to its complexity.
The finish is long and lingering, punctuated by a refreshing hint of menthol. The wine's velvety tannins provide a beautiful frame for its earthy and mineral-inspired layers, culminating in an experience that is both extensive and fresh. Hints of mint and spice on the finish add an invigorating twist, promising a wine that will continue to evolve and delight for another 15 to 20 years.
The 2000 Angelus is a testament to the mastery of its producer. This red wine represents the epitome of Bordeaux blends, a wine that not only delights with its taste but also with its historic significance and the promise of longevity. A wine for the ages, the 2000 Angelus is truly out of this world.