Last Friday evening, I was at home in Grand Haven, the kind of crisp fall night where you start pulling sweaters from the back of the closet. Dinner was a simple one—grilled lamb chops, roasted root vegetables, and that unmistakable October chill in the air that practically begs for Bordeaux.
The first thing that struck me when I poured the Château Ascension was its deep garnet color—inky at the core, fading to ruby edges. It looked serious, but not brooding. The nose took a minute to wake up (I recommend decanting for at least an hour). Once it did, I caught dark cherry, plum, and this lovely hint of graphite and dried herbs—like someone rubbed a ripe berry across a pencil shaving. Classic Saint-Émilion.
On the palate, it’s a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, though the Merlot clearly takes the lead here. Smooth, velvety tannins. Just enough structure to keep it elegant, but with that Right Bank warmth and generosity that makes you take another sip before you realize it.
Here’s what really surprised me: for a Grand Cru, it didn’t feel pretentious or over-extracted. Some modern Saint-Émilions go full bodybuilder mode—big, oaky, and overdone. But this one? It’s like a jazz musician who knows the power of silence. Everything is in the right place, and it lets the fruit and terroir do the talking.
Price-wise, it’s usually around $35–$45, which is a sweet spot for Bordeaux that actually delivers Grand Cru quality without you needing to take out a second mortgage. At that price, I’d happily pick up a few more bottles to lay down for 5–7 years. The acidity and tannins suggest it’ll age gracefully, but it’s already in a beautiful drinking window if you give it some air.
As I finished my glass, I couldn’t help but think back to the last time I was in Bordeaux—wandering the limestone hills above Saint-Émilion, the air thick with the scent of crushed rock and wild thyme. This wine brought that memory rushing back. That’s the beauty of Bordeaux: when done right, it’s less about fruit and more about place.
Here’s what I learned:
- Don’t rush a Bordeaux—decant it and give it time to stretch its legs.
- If you want power and poise, Right Bank is where it’s at.
- “Grand Cru” doesn’t always mean expensive; sometimes it just means well-made.
- Pairing it with lamb, duck, or even mushroom risotto brings out its earthy charm.
Would I buy it again? Absolutely. This is one of those wines I’d open with friends who appreciate quiet excellence. It’s not flashy, but it leaves an impression. The kind of wine that makes you slow down, maybe even sit by the fire, and just be present.
