Carillon d'Angélus Saint-Emilion Grand Cru - Second Vin 2025 (Primeurs)

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

In the heart of the Saint-Émilion coast, in the appellation’s most prestigious sector, with a south-facing exposure, Angélus boasts one of the finest terroirs, spanning 25 hectares in a single block. This estate, brought to the pinnacle of success by Hubert de Boüard—an exceptional winemaker and the heart and soul of the place—is now led by his daughter Stéphanie and his nephew Thierry Grenié de Boüard, who have been at the helm since 2016. The estate has few equals. It features a high percentage of Cabernet Franc (40 to 50%), significant human and financial investment (the new winery built in 2014 allows for the production of wines of even more impressive precision, and the recent helium balloon system is in place to counteract hail damage), and above all, meticulous attention to every detail. All of this adds up to a set of exceptionally high standards. These constant efforts earned the estate the highest ranking of Premier Grand Cru Classé A in 2012, an elite distinction that places it on the same level as Cheval Blanc or Ausone. Recently, the transition to organic farming has completed the estate’s rise to prominence; it stands out for its highly distinctive sensuality and subtle anise notes found nowhere else. Fresh, elegant, and supported by velvety tannins, Angélus remains one of the most complex Saint-Émilions on the Right Bank.

Decanter

About the wine:

Aromas of black cherry, with creamy notes of vanilla and floral hints. A creamy, silky texture that is simply magnificent: this wine combines concentration and intensity, with body without being too heavy. It exudes presence and balance, while remaining sophisticated, with a touch of freshness and liveliness. Serious, well-structured, and robust, yet refined. Fresh and extremely classic. pH of 3.5. Yield of 35 hl/ha. 2029–2036

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Promoted to the top four Grand Cru Classé A estates in the most recent Saint-Émilion classification in 2012, no other château has climbed so far up the Bordeaux hierarchy in such a short time. This remarkable rise, achieved over two decades, is the work of Hubert de Boüard—a modernist winemaker, master communicator, and international consultant, and a leading figure in local and national wine industry organizations. In 2013, the winery underwent a complete renovation and enhancement, and is now crowned by a spectacular carillon. After restructuring the family estate’s vineyard parcels—giving it every advantage to reach the appellation’s highest standards of quality—Hubert de Boüard stepped down. In 2017, Thierry Grenié-de Boüard joined Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal at the helm of the château. The eighth generation has taken the reins and is significantly shifting the landscape. Angélus exemplifies the best of the formal and sophisticated perfection found in today’s great Bordeaux wines. Ten kilometers from Angélus, a new winery will be used for the vinification of Carillon and N°3, the second and third wines, each sourced from dedicated plots. With the 2021 vintage, the château will officially obtain its organic certification.

Wine Spectator

Vinous

James Suckling

About the wine:

An intense heart of cherry and red berries on a medium-bodied wine, with salty and mineral notes. Very lively and vibrant, with a crisp finish. Already creamy and charming. A seductive mid-palate. 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc.

Jeb Dunnuck

Yves Beck

About the wine:

A beautifully expressive bouquet where the floral character of the Cabernet Franc—which makes up 10% of the blend—is evident. It is complemented by hints of pepper, mint, and blackberries. The velvety, compact attack sets the stage for a wine that displays respectable power, with the finesse of the tannins captured at just the right moment. It’s almost as if the wine were cooked to perfection—the tannins are al dente! The palate’s flavor profile is enhanced by a crisp, lively, and refreshing acidity. This is somewhat tempered by tannins that bring the whole wine together and ensure a compelling balance. A magnificent chime singing the praises of a great wine! 2029–2045

Jean-Marc Quarin