Evangile 1999

The 1999 L-Evangile has always been a difficult Pomerol to pin down. Here, a bottle tasted at Chateau Lafite-Rothschild, is better than previous encounters and more in line with encounters a decade ago. The nose is showing more ripeness and precocity with lifted raspberry and black plum notes infused by cedar and smoke. The palate is medium-bodied with a pleasing sweet, supple entry and crisp acidity. The merlot is very expressive and the tannins that appeared to go through an adolescent -gawky- stage have come through to maturity and underpin a rounded finish that does not have the complexity of a top vintage. It should offer pleasure over the next decade - a serviceable L-Evangile.

Score: 90

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 March 2013

The dark purple-colored 1999 L'Evangile is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc. It reveals an unexpected touch of herbaceousness, which cost it a point or two in the ultimate rating. Nevertheless, the striking, evolved, hedonistic perfume of melted licorice intermixed with black raspberries, minerals, and truffles is an intellectual turn-on. This is a beautiful, medium to full-bodied L'Evangile with a sweet attack and mid-palate. It may merit a higher score, depending on its evolution. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.

Score: 89

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2004-2015 01 April 2002