2022 La Chapelle D'Ausone

The 2022 Chapelle d'Ausone has an intense nose with black cherry and blueberry aromas, with a touch of crushed oyster shell, although the latter is not as pronounced as in barrel. The palate is medium-bodied with a patina of new oak to be absorbed (100% new). Again, a touch of oyster shell tinctures the black fruit. I just feel some wood tannins right on the finish, which causes me to be more prudent with my evaluation.

- Neal Martin (01/2025)

Really bright and open with flowers and plums as well as blueberries. It's medium- to full- bodied with creamy and round tannins and a vivid finish. Lots of energy and fruitiness. Second wine of Ausone. 60% cabernet franc, 35% merlot and 5% cabernet sauvignon. Drink after 2028. (01/2025)

The second wine of this brilliant château, the 2022 Chapelle D'Ausone checks in as 65% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon that was raised 20 months in barrels. Classic Cabernet Franc notes of black raspberries, currants, spring flowers, candied violets, and sappy mint herbs all shine here, and it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a pure, layered, seamless mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. While it's not the best vintage for the second wines, you wouldn't know it by tasting this. (02/2025)

The 2022 Chapelle d'Ausone has turned out nicely, offering up aromas of sweet mulberries, blackberries and plums mingled with hints of violets, mint and creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, rich and textural, it's concentrated and generously extracted, with ripe acids and a saline, oak-inflected finish.

- William Kelley (03/2025)