Introducing the exquisite 2016 Chapelle d'Ausone, an exceptional Bordeaux Blend that hails from the prestigious Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France. This red wine showcases the perfect marriage of elegance, complexity, and finesse, making it a true gem in the world of wine.
With a rich, ruby hue that catches the eye, this wine immediately captivates the senses. The nose reveals a symphony of aromas, starting with gently smoky nuances and dark stones, followed by a delightful spicy edge that complements the ripe blackberries and plums. These aromatic notes create a captivating bouquet that entices you to explore further.
On the palate, the 2016 Chapelle d'Ausone delivers a truly succulent experience. The fruit-forward profile is beautifully rounded and exquisitely rich, offering a lively and refreshing expression that dances on the taste buds. This exceptional wine is crafted from a blend of 56% Cabernet Franc, 22% Merlot, and 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the remarkable expertise of the winemakers at Chapelle d'Ausone. As the second wine of Ausone, it embodies the same level of quality and craftsmanship.
Renowned wine critics have showered this wine with well-deserved accolades. James Suckling awarded it an impressive score of 95 points, praising its aromatic interest and vibrant character. Vinous also awarded it 95 points, commending the intense black cherries, raspberry coulis, and marmalade aromas, as well as its noble and delicious nature. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate joined the chorus of praise, granting it 94+ points and noting its elegant red and black fruit layers framed by fine-grained tannins.
This dense bottling, the second wine of Château Ausone, is a testament to the winery's commitment to quality. Its rich tannins are already integrating smoothly into the structure and fruit, promising a wine that will age gracefully. Wine Enthusiast suggests enjoying it from 2024 onwards, while Jeff Leve recommends giving it 6-8 years to fully unfold and then enjoying it for the next decade.
The 2016 Chapelle d'Ausone is a wine that defies expectations, standing up to the finest wines in the world. With its distinctive deep, powerful, and beautiful take on the St-Émilion limestone terroir, it showcases the exceptional quality of Cabernet Franc in this vintage. This is a wine that will elevate any occasion and leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing it.