Château Haut Simard (by Ausone), Saint Émilion

Score: WA92

This property is owned and managed by the Vauthier family of Château Ausone. The 2015 Haut-Simard is a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, aged in French oak barrels, 30% new, for about 12 months. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it displays pronounced notes of crushed black currants, black cherries and blueberries with touches of Indian spices, menthol and tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, firm and pleasantly chewy with bags of personality and expression, it offers a good, long earthy finish.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate 92