Robert Parker – 94+/100 Drink 2007-2047

One of the vintage’s most compelling wines (what’s new about that?), Alain Vauthier’s beloved 2004 Ausone has closed down considerably since I tasted it out of barrel, but it remains among the most concentrated wines of the vintage. Furthermore, along with Petrus, it will probably be the longest-lived. A dense purple color is accompanied by a celestial perfume of blue and black fruits, wet stones, flowers, and incense. On the palate, the wine exhibits exceptional power and concentration, but this historic terroir has also provided a surreal lightness to the wine’s impression. Beautiful flavors, sensational depth, and abundant structure suggest this 2004 will not be close to full maturity for 8-10 years. It should last for four decades.

Jancis Robinson – 17+/20 Drink 2014-2020

[50:50 Merlot:Cabernet Franc with yields of around 32 hl/ha - some of the lowest anywhere in 2004.] Very dark blackish purple. Looks quite shiny. Very reticent on the nose. Quite strict - much more austere than other recent Vauthier vintages. Lots of taut, very fine tannins, very much a long-term wine which may need quite a few months more to show at its best. Fine grained, the palate builds towards the very long finish. For the moment this is a taut spring that is all promise and little current pleasure. Drink 2014-20

Neal Martin – 94-96/100 Drink 2010-

A very deep purple colour. The nose needs some coaxing. It is more delicate than usual, not as precocious than the 2003. The palate is more about poise than power - very fine acidity. Robust tannins, more masculine than in previous years. Huge grip though, its concentration creeps up on you and makes its presence felt on the persistent finish. Very broody at the moment. Perhaps missing that profundity of the 2000 or 2003, yet it has that brilliant poise that makes Ausone so special. A return to the more classic style definitely. It may need time to come around though, perhaps 5 to 6 years. Tasted April 2005.