2025, Château Ausone, SAINT-ÉMILION, Grand Cru

Only three families have owned Ausone since the 14th Century. Alain Vauthier has made massive improvements since taking full control of the winemaking and management of his family property in 1997.

30% Merlot, 65% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

A high-definition wine. Wow. The aromas are incredible, with roses, strawberries and crushed stones. So perfumed. It’s the magic of perfectly ripe cabernet franc. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a firm and silky finish. Sublime length and mouthfeel. Cool, subtle, sophisticated and stunning. So much definition.
99-100 James Suckling.

The 2025 Château Ausone has notes of sweet raspberries and mulberries mingled with notions of mint, rose petals and blood orange. Medium to full-bodied, lively and perfumed, with lovely energy, exquisitely refined tannins and a bright, precise finish, it shows extraordinary potential. No second wine for the first time since 1994—given the quality of Ausone's terroir and vine material, that seems entirely reasonable. The result is one of the most refined, classy Ausone vintages in recent years, and it will be exciting to follow these evolutions over the years to come.
97-99 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

A beautiful floral fragrance on the nose, with a touch of toasted spice, vanilla and clove along with black chocolate and blackcurrants. Smooth and creamy, round and filling with a really bright core of fresh acidity backed by mouthwatering acidity and a fleshy but really cool finish. This is a fun Ausone dare I say it, with the focus on fruit purity and clarity. Certainly an elegant and finessed wine. Chewy, supple, forward and friendly. I love the cool freshness and the sense of direction. Nothing is out of place. Earliest harvest ever.
96 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.