Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Ausone - 1995

Château Ausone 1995 is a remarkable red wine from the illustrious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation, nestled in the Le Libournais subregion of Bordeaux. This vintage blends primarily Merlot with a significant proportion of Cabernet Franc, two grapes that thrive on Ausone's steep, south-facing limestone slopes. The 1995 growing season was defined by optimum ripening conditions, yielding perfectly balanced fruit. Meticulous hand-harvesting and traditional vinification in small vats are hallmarks of Château Ausone, followed by extensive maturation in French oak barrels. The result is a wine of exceptional depth and longevity, with aromatic complexity recalling blackcurrant, plum, cedar, graphite, and subtle notes of violet and truffle. Now mature, the tannic structure has softened beautifully, yet the wine retains freshness and intensity.

Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its unique limestone and clay soils which impart a distinctive mineral character and superb ageing potential to its wines. The relatively warm microclimate and well-drained slopes provide ideal conditions for Merlot and Cabernet Franc, which dominate the prestigious right bank blends. With roots stretching back to Roman times, Saint-Émilion boasts a rich viticultural history, and Château Ausone is among its crown jewels, renowned for consistency and elegance over centuries.

The restrained power and aromatic nuance of Château Ausone 1995 make it a superb partner for classic French dishes. Consider pairing it with entrecôte Bordelaise, roast lamb with herbs, or duck breast in a red wine reduction. The wine also shines alongside earthy preparations such as wild mushroom ragout or truffle risotto, which echo the tertiary notes developed with age. From the local tradition, a confit de canard brings out the wine’s subtle spice and fruit.

To savour this fine Saint-Émilion Grand Cru at its best, decant gently to remove sediment and allow the bouquet to open for an hour before tasting. Serve at 17–18°C to highlight the wine’s complexity, finesse and silky mouthfeel.