2004 Chateau L'Evangile Pomerol

http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/france/09868.html

Grape Variety: Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Region: Pomerol, Bordeaux, France
Food pairing: Duck confit over greens and lentils


Brand: Chateau L'Evangile
Style: Red Wine
Varietal: Bordeaux Red
Region: Bordeaux Pomerol
Category: France
Size: 750 ml
Ratings: RP 93 WS 91

2009 September Wine Club Premiere Selection

Unlike the 2005 vintage, the 2004 vintage in Bordeaux was not a particularly touted one.But that doesn't mean that no one made good Bordeaux in 2004. L'Evangile, as a matter of fact, cranked out 3000 cases of 89% Merlot, 11 % Cabernet Franc that, as it turns out, are drinking beautifully right now.

When Robert Parker first reviewed the 2004 L'Evangile in April of 2005, he had high hopes for the wine. "This...boasts a sexy, upfront bouquet of raspberries, black currants and sweet smoky notes. Lush, seductive and ripe, although not terribly deep, it offers delicious fruit in its forward, elegant, finesse-styled personality. Think of it as a lighter version of the brilliant 2000," he said, and anticipated a score of 90-93.

Just over two years later, he retasted, and decided a 93 it was after all. "A stunning example of the vintage, the 2004 l'Evangile is not far off the pace of their brilliant 2005." After noting elements of licorice, truffle, and acacia flower, he concluded, "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." In other words, drink this while you wait for your Lagrange to come of age.

Food pairing:Duck confit over greens and lentils

Reviews

Robert Parker 93 Points

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.

Wine Spectator 91 Points

The milk chocolate, berry and cedar character on the nose is subtle and refined. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a refined finish. All in finesse and elegance. Best after 2011. 3,330 cases made. -JS

International Wine Cellar 90-93 Points

Good bright ruby-red. Complex, brooding aromas of medicinal black cherry, black raspberry, cedar, graphite, minerals, menthol and flowers. Sweet, dense and pure; not superconcentrated or especially thick but stylish and vibrant. Inviting, sweet black raspberry and mineral flavors with an enticing chocolatey element. Finishes with very fine tannins and lovely lingering sweetness. One of the stars of the Pomerol appellation, and clearly deeper than the 2003 was a year ago. The alcohol here is close to 13.5%, following a bit of saignee.

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