Long-time readers of this publication know that I believe Ausone is the most intellectually challenging wine made in Bordeaux. The wine often tastes as if it needs 40-50 years to shed some of its astringency and closed style. With that caveat in mind, the 1989 seemed significantly less impressive than in previous tastings. Certainly it is nowhere near the quality of the 1990. The 1989 reveals amber at the edge, and a green tobacco and mineral-scented, hard-edged nose of musty wood and earthy fruit. This mid-weight wine is spicy and elegant, with moderate body, and a boatload of astringent tannin in the harsh finish. It requires a minimum of 10-15 more years of cellaring.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Fresh and understated. Subtle aromas of flowers, berries and spices. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a silky-textured finish. Give it time to open up. Fine Ausone.-

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio