Château Angélus 2022, from one of Saint-Émilion's most famous estates.

Château Angélus sits on south-facing limestone and clay slopes in Saint-Émilion and is known for its unusually high share of Cabernet Franc, and for the bell on its label. The finished 2022 blends 60% Merlot with 40% Cabernet Franc, fermented cool and aged 22 months, with part of the Cabernet Franc in large oak foudres. Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal calls this hot, dry, extreme year a near-perfect vintage, picked between September 6 and 28. William Kelley of Wine Advocate (97+ points) says it "has turned out beautifully in bottle," with sweet cherries, mulberries, violets and a long, perfumed finish, reflecting the estate's shift toward a livelier, more integrated style. He suggests drinking it from 2030 to 2055. 14.5% ABV, 750ml.