1988 CHÂTEAU AUSONE 1988

(08-1993)
The 1988 may need 20 years to reach its peak, as it is probably the most tannic, young Ausone I have ever tasted. The tannins are extremely hard, even astringent, but unlike a number of 1988s where the balance between tannins and fruit favors the tannin (always a troubling sign), here is a case where there is plenty of juicy red and black fruit extract in a medium-bodied, superbly concentrated, very intense and powerful wine

(01-1999)
Medium depth, touch of cherry red; extraordinarily sweet and nutty. Excellent body, flavour, balance and length.