5 Fascinating Facts About Château Ausone

The Name "Ausone": A Tribute to a Roman Poet

The name "Ausone" of the esteemed Château Ausone is a homage to the Roman poet and statesman Ausonius. Owning estates in the Bordeaux region during the 4th century, his literary prowess and regional influence are celebrated through this prestigious vineyard's name. This connection not only highlights the historical depth of the area but also aligns the wine's legacy with enduring cultural sophistication.

• Historical Significance: The choice of name reflects a deep respect for the region's Roman past, linking the modern excellence of the vineyard to its ancient roots.

• Cultural Connection: By naming the estate after Ausonius, the owners emphasize a lineage of intellectual and artistic achievement.

• Legacy and Prestige: This tribute suggests that Château Ausone aspires to match the poet's lasting impact on culture and history.

For those looking to preserve the quality of this exquisite wine, proper storage is crucial. Learn more about how to store Château Ausone to maintain its distinct flavors and quality over time.

The Smallest Production Among Premier Bordeaux Estates

Château Ausone stands out for its exceptionally limited production volumes, a trait that significantly enhances its exclusivity and allure among wine enthusiasts. This premier Bordeaux estate, nestled in the picturesque region of Saint-Émilion, produces merely 2,000 cases per year on average. Such a small output is rare among the top-tier vineyards of Bordeaux, which typically boast much larger production figures.

• Limited Acreage: The vineyard spans just 7 hectares, considerably smaller compared to other prestigious estates in the area. This limited space contributes directly to the reduced quantity of wine produced annually.

• Selective Harvesting: The estate employs meticulous grape selection processes to ensure only the best quality. Each vine is carefully monitored, and harvesting is done entirely by hand, which naturally limits the volume.

• Aged Vines: Many of the vines at Château Ausone are over 50 years old, producing fewer but higher quality grapes. This age factor is crucial in maintaining the wine's renowned depth and complexity.

• Unique Terroir: The soil composition and microclimate of the estate contribute to the distinct characteristics of its wines, making them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.

These factors combine to position Château Ausone as a jewel in the crown of Bordeaux, celebrated not just for its rarity but also for its unmatched quality.

Exclusive Use of a Rare Bordeaux Grape Variety

Château Ausone, a prestigious winery in Saint-Émilion, France, is renowned for its unique approach to viticulture, particularly its exclusive use of a rare Bordeaux grape variety. This practice significantly influences the taste of their wines, setting them apart from other vineyards in the region. The primary grape used is Cabernet Franc, which is often blended in small quantities elsewhere but dominates here. This choice imparts a distinct flavor profile characterized by robust tannins and a deep, complex aroma.

• Aromatic Complexity: The dominance of Cabernet Franc enhances the wine's bouquet, offering layers of berry, tobacco, and earthy undertones.

• Aging Potential: Wines from Ausone are known for their exceptional longevity, thanks to the structured tannins of the Cabernet Franc.

• Limited Production: The focus on this specific grape limits the quantity produced, adding an exclusivity factor to each bottle.

• Historical Significance: This grape variety has been associated with the region for centuries, and its continued use at Ausone maintains a link to the area's winemaking heritage.

• Innovative Techniques: The estate employs cutting-edge viticultural methods to optimize the expression of this grape, ensuring each vintage reflects the terroir and the grape's potential.

Record-Breaking Auction Prices for Château Ausone Bottles

Château Ausone, a name synonymous with luxury and exclusivity in the wine world, has consistently fetched record-breaking prices at auctions. The allure of these bottles can be attributed to the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into each vintage. Collectors and connoisseurs alike vie for a chance to own a piece of this storied vineyard's output, driving up bids to astonishing levels.

• In 2011, a set of Château Ausone 1947 was sold for over $95,000 at a Sotheby’s auction, highlighting the vintage's rarity and the vineyard's esteemed reputation.

• Another notable sale occurred in 2016, when a collection of 1998 vintages went under the hammer for $68,500, underscoring the consistent demand for this label's products.

• More recently, in 2020, a lot featuring six bottles from the 2005 vintage reached nearly $22,000, reflecting the ongoing appreciation for Ausone’s complex flavor profiles and aging potential.

These auction results not only demonstrate the high regard in which wine enthusiasts hold Château Ausone but also the significant investment value attached to its limited production wines.

Pioneering Organic Practices in Bordeaux

Château Ausone, a prestigious winery in Bordeaux, has been at the forefront of adopting organic practices, significantly influencing the quality and sustainability of its wines. This commitment to organic viticulture ensures that the vineyard maintains a balanced ecosystem, which is crucial for producing premium wines. The use of natural methods helps in preserving the soil's fertility and protecting the vines from harmful chemicals, enhancing the overall health of the grapevines.

The impact of these practices extends beyond the vineyard, influencing how Château Ausone wines are best enjoyed. The purity and intensity of flavors derived from organically grown grapes make them ideal candidates for sophisticated food pairings. Here are some top suggestions:

• Pairing with aged cheeses brings out the subtle complexities of both the wine and the cheese.

• A match with grilled lamb enhances the wine’s fruity undertones.

• Combining it with mushroom risotto complements the earthy notes in both the dish and the wine.

• Serving alongside duck confit accentuates the deeper, savory layers of the wine.

• Enjoying with a dark chocolate dessert can highlight the wine's inherent berry flavors.

These pairings are designed to elevate the dining experience, showcasing how organic practices can enhance not only the wine's quality but also its versatility in gastronomy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rich history and unique characteristics of Château Ausone not only make it a fascinating subject for wine enthusiasts but also highlight its value as an investment and a collector's gem. As we've explored, from its ancient origins to its consistent acclaim in the wine world, Château Ausone stands out as a testament to the heritage and excellence of French winemaking.

For collectors and investors, understanding the pedigree of Château Ausone can significantly influence purchasing decisions. At Rekolt, we recognize the importance of not only providing fine wines like those from Château Ausone but also offering services that enhance the value and security of your investment. Our professional cellar storage option ensures that your wine is kept in optimal conditions, preserving its quality and increasing its potential resale value over time. This service, combined with the ability to easily trade and resell wines, positions Rekolt as a premier marketplace for wine enthusiasts who appreciate both the taste and the investment potential of their collections.

Whether you are looking to expand your existing collection, start investing in wines, or simply acquire a bottle of one of the world's most esteemed vintages, Rekolt and Château Ausone offer an unmatched combination of quality, heritage, and service.