Chateau Ausone   Ausone

2014 Ausone

By Chateau Ausone

2014 Ausone from Chateau Ausone, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

Within the pantheon of fine Bordeaux, the 2014 Ausone from Chateau Ausone stands as a testament to the resilience and adroit craftsmanship in a challenging vintage. The year's climatic fickleness posed a formidable test for vineyards throughout Saint-Émilion, yet Chateau Ausone's deft viticultural management garnered a harvest that emerged with dignity and depth.

 

A Vintage of Vigilance and Virtue

The 2014 vintage in Saint-Émilion was far from straightforward, marked by cool weather and heavy rainfall during summer, only relieved by a sublime Indian summer that salvaged the season. This resulted in wines that necessitate discernment to appreciate their nuanced complexity. As one delves into the 2014 Ausone, there is an acknowledgement of its unique vintage character—subtlety wrapped in finesse—the hallmark of Chateau Ausone's persistent pursuit of excellence despite the whims of nature.

 

Savouring the Singularities of 2014

In the glass, this garnet-hued marvel unfurls with an aromatic bouquet tinged with redcurrant and blackberry laced with hints of tobacco and wet stone—a prelude to the mercurial weather of its genesis. These elements gracefully transition to a palate layered with precise tannin structure balanced against a vibrant acidity. It’s a wine that whispers of its origin, each sip redolent with the terroir’s limestone and clay imprints, articulated through an ensemble of merlot coupled with cabernet franc's spice - an alliance sculpted by 2014’s trials.

For serious collectors and savvy investors looking at future potential as well as immediate gratification, understanding the 2014 vintage nuances is critical. 2014 Ausone represents a compelling acquisition, projecting a crescendo of maturity that will reward patience. An astute addition to any connoisseur's cellar, this jewel reflects Saint-Émilion’s tenacity and Chateau Ausone’s unyielding quest for vinous perfection amidst adversity.

Connoisseurs venturing into the 2014 vintage should be reassured; in your glass is not just a wine but a chronicle—a vintage narrative articulated by Chateau Ausone through masterful vinification. The 2014 Ausone from Chateau Ausone captures a moment in Bordeaux's grand historical tapestry, securing its place as one of the year's illustrious benchmarks.

Current market price

£3,990.00

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

249.38

Scores and tasting notes

95-96

No tasting note available.

James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)

95

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.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017

93-95

No tasting note available.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate

94

No tasting note available.

Tim Atkin - TimAtkin.com (04/2015)

17

No tasting note available.

Jancis Robinson - JancisRobinson.com

Vintage performance