Chapelle d’Ausone 2021

Château Ausone is a historic right-bank estate on the slopes of Saint-Émilion, its name tied to the Roman poet Ausonius. Chapelle d'Ausone is its second wine, made from Merlot and Cabernet Franc grown on the famous combination of clay, limestone and sand soils that many consider the finest terroir in the region. The limestone plateau and steep southerly slopes drain well and reflect heat, ripening Merlot fully while the cooler limestone holds freshness and gives Cabernet Franc its aromatic lift. The vines are farmed biodynamically, and the wine is fermented and aged for eighteen months in 225 litre French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a savoury, cedary frame. The wine is deep ruby, with a nose of dark plum, black cherry and tobacco over earth, oak and liquorice. The palate is polished and structured, with fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, mineral finish. Serve at 17 degrees, decanted ahead, with roast and braised meats.