2010 Ausone (Ex Chateau 2023)

55% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot. Generous oak spices, luscious bramble fruit with less severity than the Cheval Blanc 2010. On the palate, the sweetness of fruit (perhaps helped by alcohol) keeps the wine limber, and the acid and tannins harmonise well – this is in a lovely phase for drinking now, even though it could age much longer. Powdery tannins on the finish. (RH)

This is precise, carved, confident, with palma violets, peonies and crushed roses floating out of the glass, luscious and yet carved, creamy fruits that are encased in steel. This one is nowhere near ready. A wonderful wine, huge persistency, with tannins that suggest decades ahead. This 2010 is still pretty reserved on the nose, even austere, but feels so effortlessly put together. Reminds me of the architectural angles that I was struck by during the 2010 vintage En Primeur tastings. Winemaker/cellar master Philippe Baillarguet, overseen by Pauline Vauthier and father Alain, 100% new oak for ageing.

The 2010 Ausone has a rich, opulent, modern style bouquet with crème de cassis and blueberry aromas tinged with crushed violet. There is plenty of new oak here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a ton of blue and black fruit. It does not quite deliver the personality of its peers, although the velvety texture is very alluring. Maybe it will develop into something more interesting with bottle age, possibly going through a close phase? Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.