Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 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.
Anticipated maturity: 2022-2045
Vinous 95
The 2014 Ausone is going to need at least a few years to fully come together. Delicate, sensual and perfumed, the 2014 is one of the most refined wines of the vintage. The high %age of Cabernet Franc confers aromatic intensity, freshness and nuance, but also gives the wine an unresolved reticence that will likely take years to melt away. The 2014 is a very pretty, restrained Ausone. The blend is 60 % Cabernet Franc and 40 % Merlot.
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2039
