Drinking: Angélus 1953

Hubert de Boüard’s father and uncle, Jacques and Christian de Boüard de Laforest, made this legendary vintage. It is also special to Hubert because when he was a student, he presented this wine to his professor, Emile Peynaud. The wine convinced them of the vineyard’s potential and the Cabernet Franc’s undeniable quality there.

Jacques, Hubert’s father, chose to focus heavily on Cabernet Franc at the estate, which partly had to do with love. The maiden name of Hubert’s grandmother was Bouchet, the word for Cabernet Franc in Saint-Émilion, further convincing him (along with what appeared to be ideal terroir) to plant more Cabernet Franc. Now Cabernet Franc accounts for 47% of the plantings at Angélus, including a large portion of old vines planted by Jacques.

This bottle appeared even fresher and more vibrant than the last one I had tasted at the estate in 2019.

Hubert de Boüard told me the blend of the 1953 is likely to be at least 30% to 35% Cabernet Franc, which is close to where the current blend has returned, largely thanks to Hubert.

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Article & Reviews by Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW
Photos by Johan Berglund