Antonio Galloni

"The 2012 Chapelle d'Ausone is boisterous, open and deeply expressive, all of which provide tons of insight into what makes this Saint-Emilion property so special. Rose petal, mint and savory herbs lead to a core of dark red/purplish fruit. In this vintage, the Chapelle is unusually dominated by Cabernet Franc, which gives the wine much of its aromatic signature, poise and brilliant energy. This is a fabulous second wine from Ausone. The blend is 60% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon." -Vinous

Robert Parker

"One can’t say enough about the amazing job that Alain Vauthier and his daughter have done at this historic property on the decomposed limestone slopes of St.-Emilion. About half of their production goes into the second wine, Chapelle D’Ausone, which gives you an indication of the compulsive perfectionist attitude of the Vauthiers. The 2012 Chapelle D’Ausone has a dense ruby/purple color and is rich, broad and expansive, with notes of plum, blueberry and black raspberry fruit, powdered chalk and flowers. The wine is medium to full-bodied, beautifully pure and long and rich. This is better than many of the vintages of Ausone in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s, which says a lot about what Vauthier has achieved. Drink it over the next 20-25 years." -Robert Parker

Jancis Robinson

"A little reduced at the moment. Some sweet oak spice and a touch of char, though that may be reinforced by the reductive smokiness. Dense and chewy but very fresh and pure fruited. Tastes as if there is a touch of Syrah! Fine and compact tannins. Very promising. Mouthwatering finish from both the freshness and the tannins."