Nose
The 2017 Chapelle d'Ausone opens with slightly reticent notes of crushed black berries, cassis and tilled soil with sparks of black raspberries, red roses and cedar chest plus wafts of iron ore and crushed stones.
Palate
The palate is medium to full-bodied and rich, densely packed with firm, very fine-grained tannins, vibrant fruit and a very long, mineral-laced finish.
Growing Conditions
Ausone has only 7.3 hectares of vines and its vineyards (Merlot 50%, Cabernet Franc 50%) flourish on a steep, south-east facing slope, protecting them from cold north winds and westerly rain. Those vines at the top of the slope thrive on limestone (the `St.Emilion plateau') whilst those further down benefit from a clay/loam topsoil (the 'Côtes').
Appearance
A deep garnet-purple color.
