La Clotte 2014 (750ML)

92.5 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2014 La Clotte is a striking wine that hints at the potential the Vauthier family will likely be able to coax from this site. Punchy red stone fruit, pomegranate, blood orange, spice and menthol are front and center. Supple and pliant, with terrific underlying structure, the wine is absolutely gorgeous. Bright mineral notes and Cabernet Franc aromatics infuse the finish in a super-expressive Saint-Émilion endowed with real class. The 2014 is a transition vintage for La Clotte. The Vauthier family (owners of Ausone and several other châteaux) purchased La Clotte in September 2014, just before harvest. The wine was made by consulting winemaker Jean-Philippe Fort, but Pauline Vauthier has since taken over. I would not be surprised if in a few years' time, La Clotte sits only behind Ausone in the Vauthier range. This is a very special site. In 2014 the blend is 80 % Merlot, 10 % Cabernet Franc and 10 % Cabernet Sauvignon. (Drink between 2019-2029)" 02/17

91 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "The purity of fruit is impressive with blueberry, blackberry and currant character. Medium to full body, a dense center palate, firm and silky tannins and a savory finish. Drink or hold" 02/17

92 Points, Neal Martin, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "As I wrote when I tasted this 2014 La Clotte from barrel, Pauline Vauthier regards this as the first official vintage of the wine now part of the the family's portfolio. It was raised in the same cooperages as Ausone with a very low toasting. The bouquet is very precise and focused with vivacious, very focused, mineral-laden red fruit, whilst retaining a sense of elegance and translating the terroir. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin, again, very elegant yet intense and full of energy. It has a slightly chalky texture, the finish precise and persistent in the mouth. This is a very impressive debut that surpasses my expectation from barrel. Though unknown on the market, I suspect that this will not be the case for too much longer." 03/17