Château Ausone 2003 is a Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé from the hot 2003 Bordeaux vintage, bottled at 750mL and presented in a twelve-bottle Original Wooden Case. 2003 is known for very ripe, concentrated wines across Bordeaux and is a collector vintage at top estates like Ausone.
About This Wine
Ausone's grand vin is a Merlot-dominated blend with substantial Cabernet Franc, drawn from the estate's 7 hectares of steep limestone terraces. The 2003 growing season was marked by an intense August heatwave across France, accelerating ripening and producing small, concentrated berries. Ausone's terroir held up well, and the estate delivered a ripe, opulent wine that has aged into a softer, more mature register.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Ripe black cherry, plum, fig, sweet spice, cedar and leather from bottle age.
- Palate: Full-bodied and opulent, with dense dark fruit, soft tannin and savoury oak spice.
- Finish: Long and warming, with ripe fruit, leather and gentle oak.
Serving & Food
Decant for 30 to 60 minutes and serve at 16 to 18 degrees in a Bordeaux glass. Rich braised beef or roast game suits the wine's ripe, generous structure.
How to Enjoy
Open for a hearty dinner where the wine's ripe 2003 character can anchor the table.
Product Details
Producer: Château Ausone
Wine: Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé
Vintage: 2003
Region: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
Grape: Merlot-dominated with Cabernet Franc
Volume: 750mL
Presentation: 12-bottle Original Wooden Case
Country: France
About the Château
Ausone is owned today by the Vauthier family, with winemaker Alain Vauthier and his daughter Pauline taking the lead at the estate. The small vineyard footprint means fruit selection at harvest can be carried out within a few afternoons, allowing the team to pick at what they judge to be the optimal moment.