Chapelle d'Ausone comes from one of the two greatest estates in Saint-Émilion, a tiny property of around seven hectares on the limestone escarpment named after the Roman poet Ausonius, who is said to have had a villa there.
Tasting Notes
Dark cherry, violets and truffle, leading to an opulent palate that pays homage to the iconic vineyards of Saint-Émilion. Ausone sits on the côtes, the steep limestone slopes below the village, rather than the gravel of the plateau, and the wines carry a distinctive mineral tension alongside their richness. Cabernet Franc plays a far larger part here than in most of the right bank, which is what gives the perfume.
Quick Facts
- Grapes: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
- Origin: France, Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
- Style: Dry red, mineral, perfumed, very long lived
- Status: The second wine of Château Ausone, one of the two historic Premiers Grands Crus Classés A of Saint-Émilion
- Terroir: The limestone côtes below the village of Saint-Émilion, not the gravel plateau
Food Pairing
Roast beef, lamb, duck, truffle dishes, and aged hard cheeses.
Serving
Serve at 17 to 18°C. Decant at least an hour before pouring.
About the Producer
Château Ausone is one of the smallest and most sought-after estates in Bordeaux, roughly seven hectares on the limestone slopes below the village of Saint-Émilion. It takes its name from Ausonius, the Roman poet and consul believed to have owned a villa on the site in the fourth century. For decades it stood alongside Cheval Blanc at the very top of the Saint-Émilion classification.
