The 2023 Tempo d’Angelus is an elegant and approachable Bordeaux created by the team behind Château Angelus, offering a more accessible expression of the estate’s distinctive Saint-Émilion style. Produced from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the wine comes from clay-limestone terroirs and is made at the dedicated Chai Carillon facility. The 2023 vintage particularly suits the style of Tempo d’Angelus, with fresh, aromatic Merlot providing vibrant red-fruit character while the Cabernet Franc adds spice, lift and silky tannins.
The nose is fresh and expressive, revealing aromas of raspberry, red cherry, wild strawberry and ripe plum, layered with violet, rose petal and subtle floral notes. As the wine opens, delicate hints of black fruit, white pepper, gentle spice and crushed stone emerge, adding complexity without overpowering the vibrant fruit. The aromatic profile is particularly pure and youthful, with an attractive combination of fresh berries and floral lift that reflects the cooler, fresher character of the 2023 vintage.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied, silky and beautifully balanced, with juicy red berries and cherries supported by vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins. The Merlot provides generous fruit and supple texture, while the Cabernet Franc contributes subtle spice, darker fruit and additional freshness. There is a lovely sense of fluidity through the mid-palate, with hints of plum, raspberry, crushed stone and gentle savoury notes. The finish is clean, fresh and lingering, marked by red berries, floral nuances, subtle spice and a delicate mineral character. The wine has excellent drinkability while retaining enough structure to develop further complexity in bottle.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, the 2023 Tempo d’Angelus is an excellent choice for customers looking for an approachable Bordeaux with the pedigree and winemaking expertise of the Angelus estate. Compared with the more powerful and structured Grand Vin, Tempo offers a more fruit-driven, supple and immediately enjoyable style, making it particularly attractive for customers who want the Angelus name without committing to a wine that requires decades of cellaring. It is a polished and versatile Right Bank Bordeaux that can be enjoyed relatively young while still developing additional complexity over the medium term. Perfect with roast duck, lamb, beef tenderloin, pork, mushroom dishes, charcuterie, grilled vegetables, soft cheeses or classic French cuisine.
