2014 Chateau Ausone, Saint-Emilion, Magnum (1.5L)

DR97 Minty and savoury beefy notes, almost animal with plums, blueberries, crayon and pencil lead. Shiny and sleek, juicy and clean. This is lightly presented, lovely initial flavours and texture, streamlined, not at all plush, this is straight with delicate floral and red berry aspects that don't deepen but also don't drop from start to finish. Feels like a nice take on the vintage. Lively, tangy, with clear minerality and clear length. Has that timeless Lafite-like charm to it.

JA97 A poised, controlled and slow-revealing Ausone, as ever you feel at the 10 year mark that it is just starting to get revved up. The layers of subtle complexity are stunning, peony, rosebud, raspberry, creme caramel, salted cracker, so delicate and yet relentless, with a fresh petals fragrance that is hard to capture, keeps you invested and looking for another sip. The limestone soils come through with a mouthwatering rise through the finish. 85% new oak.