Château Ausone Ausone

The 2014 Ausone, a blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, was matured in barrel for 20 months with 85% new oak. Compared to the Chapelle d'Ausone, this Grand Vin demanded gentle coaxing from the glass. It eventually unfurls to reveal mineral-rich red berry fruit, oregano, orange blossom, and later on, blackcurrant winegums. It displays superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannin. There is an almost sorbet-like freshness conferred upon this Saint Emilion by the growing season, very harmonious and poised with one of the most precise and tensile finishes that you will find this vintage. One of the stars of the vintage, this may merit a higher score with bottle age. This is a great success.

Beautiful nose of red fruit with a delicate minty note that only makes it come across as brighter and more enticing. An extremely elegant and concentrated, mid-weight St.-Emilion with a really impressive tannin structure that gives it lots of drive at the very long and refreshing finish. Drink or hold.