Angélus releases 2014 – with a few twists

Château Angélus has released its 2014 wines with a few changes to its packaging that include changes to the management and an anti-counterfeiting measurement.

Launched in London last week, the 2014’s packaging includes a number of adjustments to the labeling that reflect the change in management at the estate.

As well as some subtle changes to the font and design of the label, the 2014 vintage will carry a small label at the bottom of the bottle bearing the number 30.

Stéphanie de Boüard explained this was a reference to her father Hubert’s 30^th vintage at the estate (he remains the winemaker despite his daughter and nephew taking over the running of the property) but also to the handover to her and her cousin, Thierry Grenié-de Boüard, the 8^th generation and both in their 30s.

The 2014 vintage will also carry a radio frequency ID chip behind the label which, Stéphanie told the drinks business, would help with “traceability” and, ergo, anti-counterfeiting.

It was, she continued, “something we’ve been thinking of for the last eight years but without knowing what we wanted.

“It’s new for us but also Bordeaux,” she added saying other estates were apparently watching to see how effective the technology was and if it was worth adopting themselves. “A lot of other brands are showing great interest and it’s useful for logistics too as you can see where it’s been.”

Thierry said that: “Counterfeits are not something we have too many troubles with but it’s something we’re keen to address and face as soon as possible.”

The chip can be scanned (through the case) at every stage in the distribution chain, building up a traceable picture of where it’s been.

Stéphanie said that she and Thierry were keen to see how the chip might be developed further, to gather more information and, if it were ever possible, to even register when the cork on a bottle is pulled.

For now though it was just the addition of what will hopefully become a useful “professional tool”.