2018 Château L'Évangile, Pomerol, France ($259)

70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc

Château L'Évangile, a First Growth of Pomerol, stands as one of Bordeaux’s most revered estates. Located on the coveted plateau of Pomerol, its vineyards are perfectly positioned on gravel and clay soils that bring elegance and power to its wines. The 2018 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, producing a wine of remarkable depth and harmony.

A bouquet of ripe blackberries, plums, and violets is complemented by hints of graphite, truffle, and sweet spices. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and luxurious, with velvety tannins and layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and savory herbs. The finish is long and complex, leaving a lasting impression of finesse and balance. Approachable now with decanting, this wine has the structure to evolve beautifully through 2040.

Critical Acclaim:

• 97 Points - Decanter: "A luxurious Pomerol of extraordinary depth and harmony. Aromas of ripe blackberries, violets, and truffle lead to a palate that is velvety and refined, with layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and savory spices. A wine that epitomizes the elegance and power of Château L'Évangile."

• 96 Points - James Suckling: "A superb showing of the 2018 vintage, with intense aromas of blackcurrants, cedar, and crushed stones. Full-bodied and structured, with polished tannins and a persistent, mineral-driven finish."

• 96 Points - Wine Advocate: "Impeccably balanced, with a seamless integration of fruit, tannins, and acidity. This wine captures the essence of Pomerol’s terroir, offering richness and finesse with every sip."

Le Macchiole, Messorio, “Super Tuscan” Toscana IGT, Italy ($260)

100% Merlot

Le Macchiole’s Messorio is a global benchmark for Merlot, earning its place as one of Tuscany’s most sought-after wines. Produced from meticulously tended vineyards in Bolgheri, Messorio showcases the estate’s commitment to crafting wines of extraordinary purity and depth. The 2018 vintage exemplifies the precision and vision of winemaker Cinzia Merli.

Intense aromas of black cherries, dark plums, and crushed blackberries are layered with notes of tobacco, mocha, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. The palate is opulent and concentrated, with silky tannins and a core of ripe fruit framed by a vibrant acidity. The finish is remarkably long, with lingering hints of spice, graphite, and dark chocolate. This wine is stunning now with proper aeration and will continue to develop complexity over the next 20–25 years.

Critical Acclaim

• 98 Points - James Suckling: "A truly spectacular Merlot that captures the essence of Bolgheri. Aromas of ripe black cherries, cassis, and Mediterranean herbs lead to a palate that is concentrated, refined, and impeccably balanced. The long, polished finish is a testament to its extraordinary craftsmanship."

• 97 Points - Wine Advocate: "An opulent yet structured wine, with layers of dark fruit, graphite, and mocha. Precision winemaking and vibrant acidity ensure both power and elegance, offering decades of aging potential."

• 97 Points - Vinous: "Messorio’s 2018 vintage is a masterclass in purity and finesse. Rich and seamless, with intense black plum and tobacco flavors, this is one of Tuscany’s greatest Merlots."

• 96 Points - Decanter: "Complex and multi-dimensional, showcasing dark chocolate, spice, and floral notes. A wine that combines richness with extraordinary balance and a long, graceful finish."

PLEASE NOTE

• Purchasers must be 21 years of age or older and be present with an ID upon delivery.

• Price includes 5.50% Maine State sales tax and Maine’s fifteen-cents redemption deposit per bottle.

• If your billing address is different from your delivery address, please include your delivery address in the comments section at checkout.

• *Delivery is by Wine Wise—not third-party carriers. Our delivery area is Cape Elizabeth, Cumberland Foreside, Falmouth, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Saco, Scarborough, South Portland, and Westbrook. We have a larger delivery area for Wine Club deliveries.