Château Angelus

Château Angélus is one of the most revered names in the world of wine, a beacon of excellence located in the prestigious Saint-Émilion region on the Right Bank of Bordeaux, France. The château is situated in a natural amphitheater, which is said to be the reason for its name; the workers in the vineyard could hear the sounds of all three Angelus bells from the surrounding churches, calling them to prayer.

The history of Château Angélus dates back several centuries, with records indicating the Boüard de Laforest family has been involved in Saint-Émilion since 1782. However, it was in 1985 under the stewardship of Hubert de Boüard that Château Angélus started ascending to the pinnacle of winemaking. Through passion, investment, and a detailed approach to viticulture and vinification, Angélus earned its rank as a Premier Grand Cru Classé (A) in the Saint-Émilion classification in 2012, a testament to the quality and consistency of its wines.

The winery's philosophy balances tradition and innovation. Angélus boasts about 39 hectares (approximately 96 acres) of vineyards planted with a varietal mix that leans heavily on Merlot (approximately 50%), complemented by Cabernet Franc (around 47%), and a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (around 3%). This blend reflects the terroir, which is a mixture of clay-limestone and clay-sand soils, contributing to the complexity, depth, and elegance of the wines produced.

The terrain, with its south-facing slopes, is ideal for capturing the sunlight, which is crucial in Bordeaux's maritime climate. This aspect also ensures excellent drainage, protecting the vines from excessive moisture. Due to its meticulous focus on quality, Château Angélus conducts green harvesting to control yields, manually harvests the grapes at optimal ripeness, and practices sustainable agriculture to preserve the environment.

Upon arrival at the cellar, the grapes are sorted with state-of-the-art technology followed by traditional vinification methods in temperature-controlled oak vats. The wine is then aged in new French oak barrels for about 18-24 months. Château Angélus's wines are known for their rich, full-bodied texture, often exuding flavors of ripe plum, blackberry, licorice, and a signature hint of coffee and spice due to the oak aging.

The estate itself is a testament to Bordeaux's heritage, with its iconic Romanesque revival bell tower adorning the label of every bottle, a symbol of the estate's deep roots and heavenly aspirations. The château has undergone renovations to enhance its charm and functionality, ensuring that it not only produces wines of remarkable quality but also stands as a destination for oenophiles seeking an immersive experience.

Château Angélus is not just a winery but a living piece of art, from its ethereal setting to the meticulous creation of its renowned wines. It offers an opulent reflection of Saint-Émilion’s rich winemaking culture, affirming its status as one of the true jewels in the world of fine wine.