I don't think I have tasted an Ausone like this. The purity of fruit and fluidity is so primary, like perfectly picked grapes with their juice. Then there is citrus freshness. It's muscular, with toned tannins that caress the palate and give a seamless finish. This really could push the boundaries for the character of Ausone, in the way of finesse with structure. Watch it. 60% cabernet franc and 40% merlot.

The 2023 Ausone was picked September 14 to 30 and matured for a planned 20 months. It has a wonderful bouquet that is very floral in style and perfectly controlled perhaps more refined than the 2022 (which incidentally had a degree more in alcohol). The palate is medium-bodied with a silky smooth entry finely tuned with impressive mineralité. It just gently "rolls out" on the languorous finish. This is a more understated Ausone compared to recent vintages but it exudes sophistication and could easily surpass the Vauthiers' 2022.

The 2023 Ausone is a powerful heady wine. Dark layered and explosive the 2023 possesses tremendous depth and tons of sheer resonance something that becomes increasingly apparent with time in the glass. Strong saline notes frame a core of dark-toned fruit mocha spice new leather pencil shavings and lavender. The savory mineral-drenched finish is eternal. All the 2023 needs is time. Readers lucky enough to own it should be thrilled.