Ausone 2011

Ausone battles with Petrus and Cheval Blanc as the Right Bank’s top Château. With production levels even less than those of Petrus, Ausone has become one of the most sought-after wines of Bordeaux. Cabernet Franc is the star here, balanced with the roundness of Merlot and a light touch of Cabernet Sauvignon to produce a blend that is typical of Saint-Émilion. But there is nothing of the ordinary with Château Ausone, whose unique terroir has led to a distinct and spectacular flavour profile that is layered with minerality. Its breath-taking landscape is peppered with belts of rocks and collapsed quarries, which not only enhance the flavour profile of the fruit, but shelter the vineyards from north and west winds, creating the ideal microclimate for cultivation. Only one of four wines to have been awarded Saint-Émilion’s Grand Cru Classe “A”, Château Ausone presents a balanced, crisp and defined wine that lingers on the palate long after each sip.