The 1998 Ausone is a true gem in the world of wine, hailing from the esteemed region of Bordeaux, France, more specifically from the sub-region of Saint Emilion. The wine is a Bordeaux blend, a beloved style recognized for its complexity and balance. With a dense, opaque purple color, this red wine immediately invites you in for a closer look.
The Ausone 1998 is a wine that promises a voyage of discovery, with reviewers noting an array of intriguing aromas. The nose is said to be restrained yet pure, featuring hints of liquid minerals, blackberries, black raspberries, and flowers, along with the captivating scent of wet earth, lavender, mint, and crushed berries. There is also a noticeable mineral undertone that is both unique and thrilling.
On the palate, this red wine delivers a medium to full-bodied experience, marked by high tannin and an immensely satisfying, symmetrical mouth-feel. The taste is complex and rich, with flavors of boysenberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, and espresso mingling with traces of underbrush and earth. The finish is long and impressive, revealing the wine's enduring power and depth.
The 1998 Ausone is a wine of great stature and promise, scoring consistently high marks from well-respected reviewers. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave this wine a score of 94, while Wine Spectator and Vinous both rated it at 95. James Suckling awarded it an outstanding 99 points, and Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com gave it a strong 96.
This wine is designed for aging, with experts recommending a cellaring period of at least 6-10 years. With a 13.0% alcohol content, the Ausone 1998 is a wine that is robust yet refined, carefully structured yet full of vitality. The experience of savoring this exquisite wine is bound to be memorable, whether now or in the future.