Château L'Evangile Pomerol AOC

Pomerol AOC, France

One of the great Pomerols — 22 hectares on clay-gravel soils adjacent to Pétrus. Rich, sensuous Merlot with the Rothschild precision: deep ruby; crushed violets, black cherry, cocoa, cedar, and a refined clay-mineral character. Aged 18 months in French barriques (50% new). More accessible than VCC in youth but equally age-worthy; excellent from 5 to 25 years.

Pairing intelligence

• main: L'Evangile's plush Merlot fruit and Cabernet Franc freshness is the model right-bank Bordeaux with lamb; dauphinoise's cream and garlic richness is balanced by the wine's structural backbone.
• starter: The wine's plum and violet opulence contrasts with the foie gras richness; the caramelised apple bridges the wine's fruit; brioche echoes the wine's own generosity.