Ch. Angelus Tempo d'Angelus 2023

Case discounts (can be mixed cases)
5% off 6 bottles (£30.40 each)
10% off 12+ bottles (£28.80 each)

2023 / St Emilion / France

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon / 14% / organic

We've resisted listing much claret for two reasons.  Firstly, despite years attending the en primeur tastings in Bordeaux (which I loved), I don't actually drink much claret these days (there are just so many other choices!).  Secondly, there are a huge number of well estabished merchants out there that offer the classic estates so much better than we ever could.  But occasionally, a wine comes along that is too good not to list and this - made by one of St Emilion's First Growth estates - is one such example. 

Given the top wine from Angelus will cost you hundreds of pounds per bottle, you'd be a fool not to have your interest piqued by the price tag of the Tempo.  And it's an excellent wine in itself - surprisingly approachable, even at this stage (a rarity for claret), but with the structure to develop in bottle for a decade plus if you so desire.  It's packed full of velvety plum and blackcurrant fruit with very fine tannins, juicy acidity and good length.  It's remarkably balanced and well integrated now, with that fresh silky fruit sitting alongside notes of tobacco, mocha, pencil shavings and spice - yes, proper claret but made in a more forward, immediate style, which is very inviting.  If you want to impress with both your wine tastes and your savviness, stock up on this.