Ausone 1995

First tasted in November 1999 when it was still tannic and backward. hen blind again at the CECWINE horizontal. Deep garnet hue. A wonderful, opulent, sexy nose with pronounced vanillary oak, fruitcake and mocha. Palate is very smooth with good acidity. Fresh. Fine delineation and well knit tannins. Quite savory, with noticeable Cabernet Franc on the savory/meaty finish. Lovely wine. Drink now or over 5-8 years. Tasted September 2004.

Ausone's extraordinary minerality is present in the 1995, yet there are more aromatics, a richer, more multidimensional palate impression, and a fuller texture - all with the terroir brilliantly expressed. The wine boasts a dense ruby/purple color and an emerging but tightly-knit nose of spring flowers, minerals, earth, and black fruits. Rich, with an opulent texture and surprising sexiness for a young vintage of Ausone, the medium-bodied 1995 displays exquisite balance between its acid, tannin, alcohol, and fruit. Although it is not yet seamless, all the elements are present for an extraordinary evolution in the bottle. This wine will age at a glacial pace for 30-40 years. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2045. Last tasted, 3/01.