Chateau Ausone   Chapelle dAusone

2014 Chapelle d'Ausone

By Chateau Ausone

2014 Chapelle d'Ausone from Chateau Ausone, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux

The 2014 vintage in Bordeaux is one which steadfastly grows in esteem amongst collectors and critics alike, particularly for its generous fruit and graceful ageing potential. The 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone from the historic Chateau Ausone is no exception; it stands as a testament to meticulous viticulture paired with the distinctive attributes of an intriguing year.

 

Distinguishing Features of a Challenging Vintage

Saint-Emilion, with its complex terroir of limestone and clay, presented winemakers with challenges in 2014 due to erratic weather conditions. A relatively cool yet dry summer was followed by an Indian summer that crucially allowed the grapes additional hang time to achieve optimal ripeness. The 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone benefitted from this serendipitous weather pattern, yielding a fine-tuned assemblage primarily featuring Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

The wine itself is a captivating echo of the season's dichotomy: initial floral aromas lead into a nuanced tapestry of dark fruits intertwined with subtle mineral undertones, alluding to the limestone bedrock of Saint-Emilion. With a judicious use of oak, this vintage exhibits a structure that whilst approachable in its youth, promises fascinating complexity as it matures.

 

An Insightful Choice for the Shrewd Investor

For investors considering inclusion in their portfolios, the 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone shines as both a wise holding and a potential star at tastings. It strikes a harmonic balance between immediate allure and long-term gratification—qualities that are emblematic of well-chosen investment wines. The lesser-known sibling to its grand vin counterpart, this iteration holds its own with remarkable aplomb.

With each passing year, the 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone emerges more profoundly as a snapshot of Saint-Emilion’s resilience and latent potential during an uncertain growing season. Its evolution stands as compelling evidence of the rewards that await those who appreciate the nuances of Bordeaux's varied vintages.

To encapsulate, the 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone captures an alluring profile—marked by harmonious fruit expressions and deftly integrated tannins—that is sure to enchant enthusiasts and investors seeking depth coupled with elegance. This wine truly exemplifies the grace under pressure characteristic of its vintage year, making it a splendid addition for those looking to diversify their collections with a Bordeaux poised for progression.

Market price (USD)

$1,490.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

101.67

Scores and tasting notes

92-93

No tasting note available.

James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)

92

No tasting note available.

Tim Atkin - TimAtkin.com (04/2015)

92

The 2014 Chapelle d'Ausone came across quite plush when I tasted it from barrel. Now in bottle it has certainly attained a more classic style without compromising the satisfying delineation and focus. There is plenty of fresh red cherry, crushed strawberry and loganberry fruit to savor, an undercurrent and limestone that percolates through. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, very refined and focused with superb tension and nuance. This just glides across the mouth, not a million miles away from the 2014 La Clotte in style, blessed with a very persistent finish.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017

90-92

No tasting note available.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate

Vintage performance