The 2013 Chapelle d'Ausone, which is made from the estate's youngest vines, is laced with dark fruit, smoke, spices and savory herbs. The 2013 is a soft, supple wine to drink upon release and over the next few years. Violets, mint and cinnamon linger on the pliant, expressive finish. There is a lot to like here. The blend is 60% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasted twice.

Even Ausone’s second wine is special in this mediocre Bordeaux vintage. The ripe 2013 La Chapelle d’Ausone offers hints of violets and crushed rocks as well as a soft, silky richness, medium body and loads of fruit. This successful St.-Emilion may turn out to be outstanding. It should drink well for 10-15 years.

(60% cabernet franc, 25% merlot and 15% cabernet sauvignon): Dark ruby-red. Wonderfully pure strawberry and floral aromas are complicated by hints of white pepper, coffee bean and gunflint. Very clean, vibrant flavors of steely red berries linger nicely on the bright, suave finish. As usual, Chapelle d'Ausone is one of the best second wines of the vintage; in fact, this is better than many grands vins in 2013.