2024 Chapelle d`Ausone (St-Emilion)

Vivid ruby with violet reflections, fragrant aromatics delivering peony and cassis puree, slate, pummice, the edge of savoury that is mouthwatering with subtle depths. Less density than many vintages, but so well handled, just totally delicious. Unusual blend with only Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, harvest 4 and 5 October. Philippe Baillarguet cellar master. 93 points

The 2024 Chapelle d’Ausone is a very pretty second wine. Floral aromatics, bright red-toned fruit and refined tannins convey an impression of finesse in a mid-weight, nuanced Chapelle. In 2024, Chapelle is 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, as all the Merlot went into the Grand Vin (as was the case in 2021). Today, the 2024 is a bit quiet. I won`t be at all surprised it is even better from bottle. 90-92 points

The 2024 Chapelle d`Ausone, like the 2021, contains no Merlot. This is a blend of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 20 months in new oak barrels. It has an intense bouquet with brambly red berry fruit, blueberry and light violet scents. This is finely delineated, although the 2022 was more complex. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth entry, a linear style and more black fruit compared to say, La Clotte. 90-92 points