2005 Ch. L'Evangile, Pomerol

In 2005 L'Evangile has produced an incredibly impressive wine. A gorgeous perfumed nose is followed by a palate of enormously rich black cherry and plum fruit. Made from 87% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc, there is nothing overblown or overextracted here, just a lovely depth and wealth of fruit, with hints of spice and bitter chocolate. The minerality of the Médocs is here too, along with the balance, freshness and vivid terroir that seems to be marking out the best 2005s. This Pomerol estate is only 12 hectares so every bottle of this wine is likely to be hugely sought-after.

L’Evangile’s sublime 2005, a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, is the first wine made in their brand new cuverie. Sadly, there are fewer than 3,500 cases of this deep purple-colored offering. A gorgeous nose of meat juices, black raspberries, chocolate, espresso, and notions of truffle oil as well as smoke is followed by a full-bodied Pomerol displaying sweet tannin, a flawless texture, and stunning complexity. While surprisingly showy and forward for a l’Evangile, it will undoubtedly shut down over the next year or so.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 30-Apr-2008)