EVANGILE 2002

Saturated medium ruby. Very precise, vibrant aromas of blackberry, black cherry, violet, licorice and bitter chocolate. Supple on entry, then juicy and primary, with bright but well-integrated acidity framing the dark berry, licorice and floral flavors. Showing a lovely restrained sweetness and considerable class. Finishes with lush, spreading tannins and excellent mouth coverage.

A successful wine for a Right Bank Pomerol, this is an elegant but strongly constituted, medium-bodied L’Evangile with a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, sweet blackberry, raspberry notes, with a distinctive earthiness, medium body, surprising potency (13.8% alcohol) and a long finish with sweet tannin. The blend in 2002, according to Jean Pascal Vazart, was 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc. The tannins are sweeter than I would have thought, so I suspect this wine will drink well early, but have good keeping qualities. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017.