2011 Château l'Évangile

The 2011 l'Evangile has a rather sweaty bouquet at first, maybe just a little forced in the winery? Menthol scents emerge with time. The palate is spicy on the entry, a little richer in style than its peers, good body and depth with a savory, white pepper and clove finish. Peaking now, though it will give several years more drinking pleasure. A second bottle poured is much better. Cleaner and more focused on the nose, earthy red fruit mixes with hoisin and truffle. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fresh and focused with a delineated finish, this is one of the few to offer a touch of mineralité . Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.

Tasted blind. Greyish crimson. Light nose. Thick, dense texture with quite a bit of extraction. Hint of yeast extract. Heat on the end. Lots of juiciness and vigour. (JR)

The grand vin, the 2011 l’Evangile exhibits a dark ruby color with purple nuances as well as noticeable acidity, a streamlined, crisp, elegant, mid-weight style, red and black fruits, light tannin and a fresh, vibrant mouthfeel. It is a blend of 94% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. By the way, this 55-acre estate is now slightly larger than when the Rothschilds first acquired it as they have purchased 15 acres from La Croix de Gay.