1997 Angelus
By Chateau Angelus
1997 Angelus from Chateau Angelus, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
The 1997 Angelus from Chateau Angelus represents a particularly astute vintage for investors and connoisseurs alike. It embodies the resilience of the Saint-Emilion terroir through a challenging climatic season, where meticulous vineyard management was paramount to achieving the excellence for which this esteemed chateau is known.
Tale of a Vintage: Character Forged in Adversity
The weather patterns of 1997 threw many a curveball at Bordeaux's vintners. A generally warm spring promised an ideal growing season, but the summer saw inclement weather that tested the mettle of Chateau Angelus's vineyards. It was the expertise of those at the helm that piloted this vintages' grapes safely through to harvest, coaxing from them a distinctive expression that is both rare and valuable to a wine investor's portfolio.
The Taste Profile: An Oenophile's Narrative
In the glass, the 1997 Angelus narrates its story with a complexity born of its vintage’s trials. A robust bouquet greets the olfactory senses with dark fruits and an undercurrent of earthy undertones, while on the palate, mature notes of blackberry compote, truffle, and leather are laced with subtle hints of spice. The merlot's plumpness finds balance with cabernet franc's structure, delivering a finish that speaks volumes about Saint-Emilion’s capacity for elegance even in less than perfect years.
The textural layers and now resolved tannins found in this wine render it completely accessible, offering immediate pleasure to those who choose to uncork this chapter of Bordeaux history.
A Vintage Suited for Investment
For investors delving into fine wine as a tangible asset, the 1997 Angelus presents an intriguing narrative. It stands as testament to Chateau Angelus's enduring legacy and to the finesse achievable even when nature offers up its challenges. And now, some two and a half decades later, it has entered a splendid window for both drinking and investment return—a considered addition to a diversified portfolio.
Thus concludes our introspection upon the 1997 Angelus from Chateau Angelus—a vintage encapsulating perseverance, expertise, and mature allure that acts as both cornerstone and beacon within an oenophile's collection.
Market price (GBP)
£3,140.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
348.89
Scores and tasting notes
This saturated, deep ruby/purple-colored wine is a big, rich, smoky St.-Emilion exhibiting this estate's tell-tale characteristics of Provencal olives, black cherry liqueur, prunes, and toasty new oak. It is soft, supple, and ideal for consuming over the next 10-12 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000
Tasted at Farr Vintners' vertical from ex-chateau magnum. The 1997 has a lighter bouquet with brambly black fruits, a touch of Indian ink and dried flowers. Quite pleasant but not complex, tobacco and autumn leaves developing with aeration. The palate is well defined with fine tannins, cohesive with good acidity. Not complex but harmonious, a savoury touch, a little dryness towards the finish but just missing a little length. A decent 1997, but not a wine I would choose to cellar. Tasted October 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2012