Chateau Ausone 2020 750 ml

Description:

Château Ausone, located in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, France, is revered as one of the Premier Grand Cru Classé A estates. The 2020 vintage exemplifies the château's dedication to crafting wines of extraordinary quality that reflect the unique character of their historic terroir.

Blend and Production

The 2020 Château Ausone is an equal blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Franc. The wine is aged in 100% new French oak barrels, with some maturation taking place in 30-hectoliter oak casks, a method that enhances its complexity and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep garnet-purple hue with impressive intensity.
• Nose: Aromas of ripe blueberries, black plums, and black raspberries mingle with notes of pencil shavings, iron ore, rose petals, truffle, and cedar.
• Palate: Medium to full-bodied with layers of vibrant black and blue fruits. The wine is framed by ripe, fine-grained tannins and balanced by seamless freshness, leading to an exceptionally long, pure, and mineral-driven finish.

Critical Acclaim

• Wine Enthusiast: 98 points – Recognized for its power, depth, and layered complexity, with a long aging potential.
• Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW: 100 points – Praised for its perfumed elegance, energetic fruit layers, and epic length, highlighting its potential for aging.

Serving and Cellaring

The 2020 Château Ausone is best served at around 60°F (15.5°C) to fully appreciate its nuanced aromas and flavors. Decanting before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up. While it can be enjoyed young, this vintage is built for long-term aging, with an optimal drinking window from 2028 to 2048.

Conclusion

The 2020 Château Ausone is a masterpiece that demonstrates the estate's unwavering commitment to excellence. With its harmonious balance of power, elegance, and longevity, it is a standout example of the exceptional quality that defines the Saint-Émilion appellation. This wine is a worthy addition to any fine wine collection and a testament to Bordeaux’s winemaking artistry.