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

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Located in the heart of the Saint-Émilion hillside, 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 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. 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 forms a high-standard arsenal. These constant efforts earned it the supreme rank 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 rise of this estate, which stands out for its unique sensuality and subtle aniseed 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, muscular 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 of the First Growths in the 2012 Saint-Émilion classification, 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—a key figure in local and national wine industry circles. In 2013, the winery underwent a complete renovation and enhancement, 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 is stepping down. In 2017, Thierry Grenié-de Boüard joined Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal at the helm of the château. The eighth generation is taking the reins and making significant changes. 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 with their own 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 gives way to a wine that displays impressive power, with the finesse of the tannins perfectly captured at just the right moment. It’s almost as if the wine were prepared à la minute—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 grand chime singing the praises of a great wine! 2029–2045

Jean-Marc Quarin