What Makes Chateau Angelus an Icon of Saint-Emilion?
Named after the daily prayer and the tolling of the Angelus bells that once united the people of Saint-Emilion in a shared moment of devotion, Chateau Angelus stands as a timeless symbol of family heritage and craftsmanship. The de Bouard de Laforest family has owned the estate since 1782, with Stéphanie de Bouard-Rivoal, representing the eighth generation, leading the property today.
Recognized as a Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classe “A”, Chateau Angelus has become a benchmark for quality, innovation, and modern winemaking, seamlessly blending tradition and excellence in the heart of Bordeaux’s Right Bank.
Where Is the Chateau Angelus Vineyard Located and What Makes Its Terroir Unique?
Nestled on a south-facing slope in Saint-Emilion, Chateau Angelus enjoys ideal sun exposure and natural drainage. The 100-acre vineyard forms a natural amphitheater of clay, limestone, gravel, and sandy soils, organically cultivated for over a decade.
The vines are meticulously planted by soil type:
Merlot (50%) – on the hillside, bringing silkiness and depth.
Cabernet Franc (47%) – on sandy-clay limestone, adding spice and freshness.
Cabernet Sauvignon (3%) – enhancing structure and longevity.
With an average vine age of 38 years, and planting densities between 6,500 and 8,000 vines per hectare, Chateau Angelus produces wines of remarkable balance, elegance, and complexity.
How Has Chateau Angelus Embraced Organic Viticulture?
In 2015, Chateau Angelus transitioned to organic farming to protect and preserve the biodiversity of its vineyard ecosystem. The estate has eliminated chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, replacing them with pheromone-based pest control methods and maintaining natural balance through beehives and freely growing vegetation between the vine rows.
These sustainable practices reinforce the purity of the terroir and ensure that future generations can continue producing wines that express the essence of Saint-Emilion.
What Is the History of Chateau Angelus and the de Bouard de Laforest Family?
The history of Chateau Angelus is deeply tied to the de Bouard de Laforest family, who settled in Saint-Emilion in 1782. Over the centuries, the property expanded through strategic acquisitions, including Clos de l’Angelus and parcels from Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot.
In 1954, Angelus achieved Grand Cru Classe status. Under Hubert de Boüard de Laforest, the estate embraced modern winemaking techniques that elevated it to one of Saint-Emilion’s finest producers. Today, Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal continues that legacy, combining tradition with innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Why Is Chateau Angelus Known as James Bond’s Favorite Bordeaux?
Chateau Angelus has earned cinematic fame through its appearances in three James Bond films. The 1982 vintage appeared in Casino Royale (2006), followed by the 2005 vintage in Spectre (2015) and No Time to Die (2021).
While Bollinger remains Bond’s official Champagne, Chateau Angelus is undoubtedly his favorite Bordeaux, symbolizing sophistication, elegance, and timeless appeal—qualities that mirror the estate’s own identity.
What Does the Iconic Bell of Angelus Symbolize?
The bell, prominently featured on the Chateau Angelus label and estate architecture, pays homage to a centuries-old Saint-Emilion tradition. During the 15th century, the bells of three local churches rang out morning, midday, and evening, calling the community to prayer—the “Angelus.”
In the vineyards of Chateau Angelus, the sound of these bells was amplified by the natural amphitheater. This moment of unity and devotion inspired the estate’s name and enduring emblem, reflecting a deep connection between faith, family, and land. Today, the chateau’s bell tower continues the tradition, ringing national anthems for visiting guests.
What Wines Does Chateau Angelus Produce?
Chateau Angelus crafts three exceptional wines, each expressing a unique facet of its Saint-Emilion terroir:
Chateau Angelus – The Grand Vin
A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, offering intense black fruit aromas, floral elegance, and velvety tannins. Each vintage has its own identity—“Sublime” 2020, “Flamboyant” 2019, “The Phoenix” 2018.
Carillon d’Angelus – The Second Wine
Introduced in 1987, this wine mirrors the Grand Vin’s precision and finesse with plush fruit, smooth tannins, and exceptional balance.
N°3 d’Angelus – The Third Wine
A youthful, Merlot-dominant wine aged in second and third-fill barrels, approachable in its youth yet structured enough to age for several years.
Together, these wines represent the range, depth, and excellence of Chateau Angelus craftsmanship.
Why Is Chateau Angelus a Must-Have for Bordeaux Collectors?
Chateau Angelus is more than a wine—it’s a symbol of devotion, heritage, and artistry. Combining organic viticulture, an exceptional terroir, and eight generations of family expertise, it stands as a pillar of Saint-Emilion’s Premier Grand Cru Classe A estates.
Whether featured on the big screen or on the tables of collectors, Chateau Angelus captures the soul of Bordeaux—a perfect harmony of power, elegance, and timeless beauty.
Want to Learn More About Chateau Angelus?
To discover more about the history, winemaking philosophy, and the latest vintages of this legendary estate, read our detailed blog article about Chateau Angélus. Dive deeper into its heritage, explore tasting notes, and find the perfect bottle to add to your Bordeaux collection.
