A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Angelus is deep garnet-brick in color. It sashays out with flamboyant notes of powdered cinnamon, kirsch, dried lavender, and tobacco leaf, followed by hints of fragrant earth and dried Provence herbs. The medium-bodied palate has muscular fruit and lightly chewy tannins, with a refreshing line and an herbal lift on the finish. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The 2002 Angelus, which had a poor flowering for the Merlot and is therefore more Cabernet Franc dominated, has a quite lovely bouquet that is very Pomerol-like with crushed violets permeating the lifted black fruit. Plenty of freshness here. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins on the entry, fine structure, probably fully mature now with a fine bead of acidity. Not as complex as the 2001, yet this 2002 has commendable tension with a touch of allspice and sage towards the finish. Crack open a bottle now or over the next decade. Tasted at the château. -- Neal Martin

A successful offering for the vintage the 2002 exhibits a deep ruby/purple/plum color as well as a sweet forward style with black fruits intermixed with espresso roast lavender and Provencal herbs. Medium to full-bodied lush and round with fine purity ripeness and surprising body and sweetness for a right bank 2002 it can be drunk now or cellared for 12-15 years.

Impressive dark color for the vintage with lots of grapey vanilla with black licorice aromas. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Wild finish. Tastes like cinnamon and cardamom. Angélus kicks. Well done. Best after 2007. 4830 cases made. –JS