In Bond Fine Wine. 2001 Château Ausone, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. Premier Grand Cru Classé A • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 98/100 (RP). Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
The pinnacle of Saint Emilion, Ausone is initially one of only two estates (with Cheval Blanc) to be have been recognised as Premier Grand Cru Classe A. The Petrus of the appellation, due to its very small production (around 1500 cs per year). One of the oldest in Bordeaux, the vineyard is perched above the town and is regarded as one of the finest terroirs of St Emilion, steep south-easterly slopes planted with old vines on limestone, which imparts minerality to the wine. Under the control of Alain Vauthier, Ausone is consistently producing brilliant wines worthy of its illustrious history, that are considered amongst the very best of the vintage.
James Suckling (JS) — 95/100 · Wine Spectator, 31/03/2004 · Drink 2007+
You have to love the beautiful plum, berry and vanilla character in this wine. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish. Very refined and beautiful. Not the 2000, but classic just the same. Best after 2007.
Robert Parker (RP) — 98/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/06/2004 · Drink 2012-2050+
The 2001 Ausone has put on even more weight than I anticipated. The 'wine of the vintage' this inky/purple-colored 2001 boasts a provocative, floral perfume of crushed stones, raspberries, blackberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and smoke. What makes it so sensational are the layers of flavor and nuances that unfold as the wine sits in the glass as well as on the palate. This is an extraordinari…
Jancis Robinson MW (JR) — 16/20 · JancisRobinson.com, 17/01/2008 · Drink 2012-2018
Mid red. An enveloping cloud of warm, rich aroma. Quite pronounced acidity and freshness. Spiney - linear. An interesting wine. Very hard work on the palate at the end - a bit forced. Very dry finish. Another wine that tastes Spanish!