1961 Ausone

This is the second bottle of the 1961 Ausone that I have encountered. It is not quite as good as the one poured at the vertical in London a few months earlier. Deep in colour with some turbidity, it has an attractive bouquet with veins of blue fruit amongst the black, developing more floral aromas with aeration. The palate is surprisingly tannic and backward, impressive grip and structure with a light marine influence. This feels solid and swarthy with touches of brown sugar towards the finish. Very fine, although bottles can be even better. Tasted at the 1961 dinner Chairman Miaow’s in Hong Kong.

The 1961 Ausone is a vintage that I have encountered just once before when it showed well. Perhaps this bottle was even better? It sported a wonderful, well defined bouquet with blackberry and briary scents, aniseed and pressed flowers. I admire the vigour and focus of this 1961, developing more and more complexity with time, a touch of brine surfacing. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannins that lend this structure, a solid foundation. There is a fine line of acidity, still fresh and vital after 57 years with a precise, cedar and leather-tinged finish that is a delight. Tasted at the Ausone vertical in London.