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Tasting Notes
The Vauthier family of Ch. Ausone took over the four-hectare Ch. la Clotte in 2014 – and quality has been on the rise ever since. From 57-year-old vines, the 2021 is another impressive offering – playing to the elegant style of the vintage. The Vauthiers picked the Merlot on 2nd October, the Cabernet Franc on 6th. The resulting wine is elegant, dark and pure – with a nose of seamlessly ripe but vibrant plummy fruit. It manages to combine a round ripeness and juicy crunch of red fruit, with a subtle dusting of tannins that add grip to the long finish, framing the fresh, cranberry acidity. Blend: 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc
Critic Scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2021 La Clotte is an attractive, soft wine. Bright red/purplish fruit, gentle spice, a touch of new oak and mocha come together nicely. The 2021 is a pretty, mid-weight La Clotte that will drink well with minimal cellaring. Franc aromatics, such a signature of this wine, aren't quite apparent. La Clotte does its malo in oak, and there is a bit of cooperage that needs to integrate.
The 2021 La Clotte was picked October 2 and 6 for the Merlot and Cabernet Franc, respectively, and matured entirely in new oak. It has a well-defined nose of black cherries and light blueberry fruit, floral as usual, though not as decadent as previous vintages (as expected). The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins and good density, though maybe just missing a little amplitude and complexity on the finish at the moment. Fresh, yet you feel it is holding something back. Very correct.
Medium to full body with a creamy, supple tannin structure. Just-ripe plum fruit and dark berries with a touch of chocolate. Plush, yet so fresh. 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc.
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