1988 Chateau Ausone, Saint-Emilion, Bottle (750ml)

Bottle proffered for my birthday. Deep garnet core with faint, thin dark brick rim. The nose is quite spicy, earthy and Graves in style. Burnt toast, turning more mulberry-ish with aeration. The palate is tannic at first but becomes more rounded with notes of blueberries and cassis. Backward but focused and very long. A bit frayed on the finish, a touch of volatility. A very fine Ausone that needs another 3-5 years to reach its peak (RP)." (February 2004)
Chateau Ausone, Premier Grand Cru Classe A, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru