2012 Ausone (St-Emilion)

The 2012 Ausone is another prodigious effort that should turn out to be one of the longest-lived wines of the vintage. It boasts a dense purple color along with abundant notes of mulberries, black currants, blueberries and a hint of raspberries interwoven with spring flower and crushed chalk-like characteristics presented in a full-bodied yet ethereal, stylish, racy, noble manner. This is a high class, aristocratic, nearly perfect wine to cellar for a decade and then watch it unfold over the following 40-50 years. 95-97 points

The Grand Vin is a blend of 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot that is being raised in 85% new oak. A lot of young vines of Cabernet Franc were put into Chapelle instead of the Grand Vin this year, but the older vines were not affected. It was picked on 9th, 11th and 12th October (Merlot) and 13th, 15th, 17th October (Cabernet Franc.) It has a broody bouquet compared to the 2011 last year, with a marine-like influence – seashells and a touch of seaweed. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, crisp acidity (pH3.55) with a compact, tense and structured finish. This is a very composed Ausone, finely tuned, understated and classy. I feel it will give more out of bottle. 93-95 points

Beautiful dark purplish crimson. Elegant and suave nose of ripe fruit. Particularly fragrant entry leading to a layered, stylish and velvety palate crammed with fruit and sap. Remarkably sophisticated finish supported by exquisite tannins. A wine of poise and elegance. 94-95 points

Alan Vauthier describes his impressive 2012 as being like 2011 but with more finesse. It’s certainly less muscular and tannic than the previous year’s Ausone, reflecting the skill of the winemaker as much as the degree of selection. This is a very polished wine, sleek and elegant with an intense bouquet of red fruits and vanilla oak, fine tannins, a touch of reduction and a bright, underlying minerality. Drink 2020-45. 97 points