A successful wine for a Right Bank Pomerol, this is an elegant but strongly constituted, medium-bodied L’Evangile with a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, sweet blackberry, raspberry notes, with a distinctive earthiness, medium body, surprising potency (13.8% alcohol) and a long finish with sweet tannin. The blend in 2002, according to Jean Pascal Vazart, was 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc. The tannins are sweeter than I would have thought, so I suspect this wine will drink well early, but have good keeping qualities. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017.

Aromas of fruit and coffee, with hints of smoke. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Lovely fruit to this subtle wine. Evangile didn't push it here and offers a wine with elegance and length. Best after 2006. 2,500 cases made. -JS