1982 CHÂTEAU AUSONE 1982

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(09-2007)

(11-2012)Tasted at Pebbles/Zachy’s 1982 dinner in Hong Kong. Again, this is a 1982 that I have not tasted for a number of years. It is actually a better showing than I would have predicted given its auspicious company, especially in juxtaposition with Cheval Blanc. It has a rather odd not of wild mushroom, bacon fat and truffle, although there is certainly some brettanomyces adding some of the old sweaty saddle aromas that rather knocks the aromatics sideways. The palate is medium-bodied and loose knit on the entry. To be honest, it has more elegance than I anticipated and I cannot help feeling that if it were not for the brett it would have been a “contender”. But there is certainly good substance here and I suspect larger formats might have more to offer.

(11-1998) A real beauty. Dark ruby color, with a garnet hue. Very fresh fruit with floral, berry and perfume character. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and long, sweet fruit.

(10-2008) Brownish color, medium intensity. Complex nose, smelling of ripe fruit and cedar. It has the advantage of being pure when stirring glass. Soft on the attack, rather voluminous compared to the others, the wine is sappy ahead with a very good taste reminiscent of red and white fruits. Still sappy and long finish. Fairly structured wine, giving a feeling of uniqueness, but still a bit cramped, and that's a shame. Considering its rating on the market, and for a good management of your cellar, I recommend that you sell it.