Moulin Saint Georges 2011

Owned by the Vauthier family, this wine receives much of the same attention as the historic Ausone vineyard. Open-knit with lots of ripe black cherry and black currant fruit as well as crisp acids, a hint of chalky minerality, and a medium-bodied finish, it can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years.

The Moulin Saint-Georges is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc picked at 35hl/ha and will spend around 18 months in new oak. It has a floral bouquet emanating from the ripe Cabernet Franc, hints of cassis and blackcurrant complemented by subtle crushed stone aromas with aeration. It is well defined and focused, the oak deftly assimilated into the wine. The palate is medium-bodied with a lovely opening of vibrant, red berry fruit with hints of truffle and dried meats. It is very well balanced with svelte tannins and substance from start to finish. This is a supremely accomplished Saint Emilion from Alain Vauthier: feminine and...nubile. Tasted April 2012.

This shows a lively character, with lots of dark-fruit and citrus character. Full body, chewy, creamy tannins and an intense finish. Try after 2016.

This 7 hectare vineyard adjoins Ausone and has the same owner and winemaker. The Vauthier family have owned it since 1921. "Readers should think of it as a junior Ausone" says Robert Parker. MSG always provides some of the best value in Saint Emilion. Those of us who cannot obtain or afford a case of Ausone should consider Moulin St Georges as it offers more than a hint of the Ausone style at a fraction of the price. Made from 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, low yields and like Ausone, it is elevaged in 100% new oak barrels for 18 months. Production 2500 cases. There is a dark red colour and vibrant red fruit on the nose. Generous sweet fruit on the palate but quite dry at the finish. Juicy but structured.

The nose has an appealing fragrance with fresh red cherry and redcurrant. There is more weight on the palate sweet fruit and rounded tannins filling out the mid palate with the freshness of the nose showing at the back bringing out the fragrances on the finish.

Fine fruit and tannins but a rather rapier-edged acidity leaves a hard note. A little too vif but should age. Drink 2017-2026