Angelus unveils its new winemaking cellar dedicated to its Grand Vin.
May 8, 2026 (Saint-Émilion, France) — Buried 7 meters beneath the ground, this rare and unique cellar pushes the boundaries of engineering. At the heart of the design is a series of inverted, suspended truncated-cone vats made of oak, stainless steel, and concrete, a signature of Angelus. Their unique design enables slow and delicate infusion during the vinification process, allowing gradual extraction that is particularly respectful of the grapes. Mechanical handling is kept to an absolute minimum, enabling precise support for the Estate’s signature grape varieties, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, in order to reveal their full aromatic complexity and refined tannins.
Its pillar-free vaults, inspired by the craftsmanship of cathedral builders, its walls composed of horizontal layers of architectural concrete, and its oak roof structure with an exceptional span of 22 metres make it a truly unique achievement.
This architectural and technical masterpiece is enhanced by the use of noble materials: high-density raw concrete, stainless steel and oak.
This approach, balancing both aesthetic and functional considerations, represents a new model for optimising space and winemaking processes, all in the service of producing the Grand Vin.
The use and management of resources have also been key priorities in the design of this new cellar, which will receive the 2026 vintage. Guided by a commitment to preserving resources, this approach has been underpinned by the collection and analysis of data carried out throughout the year by the Angelus R&D department: reduced water consumption, recovery of 100% of the CO2 produced during fermentation, and careful selection of materials in line with the need to conserve and regenerate the biotope.
“We retain the tried-and-tested methods of the past and look with interest at the positive and promising benefits that innovation can bring, while remaining committed to preserving the wonderful biotope for which we are responsible. This is, once again, a natural approach, as we are committed to protecting the environment in which we live every day, in which our children grow up, and in which our employees spend most of their time,” says Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal.
Designed as a precision tool to serve the terroir and meet the high standards of those responsible for it, this major achievement will mark a milestone in the Estate’s history by enhancing Angelus’s ability to provide an increasingly precise interpretation of each vintage.
About Angelus
At the heart of Angelus is an extraordinary vineyard, perched on the famed pied de côte at the entrance to Saint-Émilion, bathed in southern sunlight. Since 1782, generations of the de Boüard de Laforest family have nurtured this land with passion and dedication. Spanning 135 hectares—including 65 hectares in Saint-Émilion, with 30 hectares forming the historic core—Angelus stands among the most prestigious vineyards of its appellation. In 2012, after more than thirty years at the helm, Hubert de Boüard de Laforest passed the torch to his daughter, Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal. She became the third woman in nearly 250 years to lead this iconic estate. Under her stewardship, Angelus continues to honor its legacy while shaping its future. Today, Angelus employs 170 people, produces eight cuvées, and owns hotels and restaurants, including Logis de la Cadène in Saint-Émilion and Le Gabriel in Bordeaux.
