L'Evangile 2004

A stunning example of the vintage, the 2004 l'Evangile is not far off the pace of their brilliant 2005. A blend of 89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc (3,000+ cases produced), it exhibits a deep ruby/plum color, superb ripeness, and sweet blackberry, truffle, acacia flower, licorice, and toasty oak aromas. This knock-out effort is surprisingly rich, opulent, and fruity with good glycerin, medium to full body, and a stunning finish. It should drink beautifully young yet age for 15 or more years.

This is leaner on the nose than the 2008, touches of undergrowth, blackberry, cedar...almost as if there is a little Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend (which there is not.) The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, just a little coarseness, quite foursquare towards the finish.