2004 Angelus (St-Emilion)

(60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc; all of the cabernet franc made the cut for the grand vin Saturated ruby. Brooding, liqueur-like aromas of blackberry, blueberry, kirsch, smoked meat and licorice; just the right side of overripe, like the best Napa Valley cabernets. Then thick, sweet and concentrated, with a wonderfully fine-grained texture and superb lift to its black cherry, dark berry and bitter chocolate flavors. Wonderfully fresh, fruit-driven wine, finishing with huge but noble tannins and superb, mounting length. `One of my three or four best wines at Angelus,` Bouard maintains. And one of the top 2004 St. Emilions as well. 91-94 points