L'Evangile 1989

Compared directly against the Trotanoy 1989, there is a little more ripeness and volume on the nose of the L'Evangile 1989, although you have to be patient and let those aromatics to unfold. The palate is very well balanced and refined. There is a sense of harmony to this L'Evangile that surpasses both the 1982 and 1990. It glides across the mouth, harmonious and silky smooth with a ferrous finish that begs another sip. This was the finest L'Evangile from this era and it continues to offer immense pleasure. Tasted December 2013.

Fully mature and not likely to improve, although certainly capable of lasting another 10-15 years, the dark plum/garnet-colored 1989 L'Evangile (considerable amber exists at the edge) offers a nose of toffee, caramel, malt chocolate, sweet black cherry, and currant fruit. The wine has low acidity and plump, fleshy, forward appeal. With sweet tannin and a ripe, moderately endowed, long finish, it has nowhere near the weight, aging potential, or volume of the 1990, but it is still a top-class effort. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. Last tasted, 11/02.