La Chapelle d'Ausone 2022, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru -

Winemaker and Vineyard: Château Ausone, a Premier Grand Cru Classé A in Saint-Emilion, has been historically associated with the Vauthier family for several generations. It occupies the site of the ancient villa of the poet Ausone in Lucaniac (Saint-Emilion), from which it takes its name. The property retains old vines and produces an exceptional wine every year. The vineyard's terroir is particularly favorable: protected from the north and west winds by a belt of rocks and collapsed quarries, it enjoys excellent exposure to the east and south. The vineyard covers 9 hectares, with an average vine age between 45 and 50 years. Annual production ranges from 4,000 to 10,000 bottles, depending on the quality of the vintage.

Tasting: The 2020 Chapelle d'Ausone contains more Cabernet Franc (60%) than the grand vin this year and 5% of Cabernet Sauvignon too. Revealing aromas of cherries, red berries, incense and cloves, it's medium to full-bodied, perfumed and precise, with a satiny attack and a saline finish. robertparker.com (04.06.2023)

Service: Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany a rabbit stew with porcini mushrooms.