Description
The Château Ausone 1982 is a highly sought-after wine from one of Bordeaux's most esteemed estates in the Saint-Émilion appellation. The 1982 vintage is legendary across Bordeaux for its near-perfect growing conditions, producing wines of exceptional quality, power, and aging potential. While Château Ausone had a slightly different style and reputation during the early 1980s compared to today, the 1982 remains a fascinating and historic wine, showcasing the estate’s unique limestone terroir.
Wine Overview
Château Ausone is celebrated for its small production and unparalleled terroir. The 1982 vintage likely includes a blend of:
Cabernet Franc (dominant): Adding structure, aromatic intensity, and floral and herbal notes.
Merlot: Providing richness, softness, and fruit-forward elements.
Vintage Characteristics
The 1982 vintage is considered one of the greatest in Bordeaux history, characterized by a warm and dry growing season with perfect ripening conditions. These factors resulted in wines with ripe fruit, rich textures, and excellent structure for long-term aging. Château Ausone’s 1982 vintage reflects these characteristics with its balance of richness, minerality, and elegance.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Brick red with a garnet core, showing the maturity and age of the wine.
Aroma: A complex bouquet of dried red fruits (cherries, cranberries), leather, cedar, and earthy notes. Tertiary aromas of truffles, tobacco, forest floor, and a hint of minerality contribute to its layered complexity.
Palate: Medium-bodied with fully integrated tannins and a silky texture. Flavors of dried blackcurrants, red plums, and figs are complemented by savory notes of herbs, pencil shavings, and spice. The hallmark freshness and minerality of Château Ausone’s limestone soils remain evident, even after decades of aging.
Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering notes of dried fruit, cedar, and subtle minerality.
Drinking Window
As of 2025, the Château Ausone 1982 is considered fully mature and is best enjoyed now if it has been properly stored. While it may hold for a few more years, it is unlikely to improve further and should be savored for its beautifully developed tertiary characteristics.
Food Pairing
The 1982 Château Ausone pairs wonderfully with dishes that complement its mature flavors, such as:
Roast lamb or beef tenderloin with herbs.
Game dishes like venison or duck with a berry sauce.
Mushroom-based dishes, such as porcini risotto or truffle pasta.
Aged, hard cheeses like Comté, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or aged Gouda.
Serving Recommendations
Decanting: Decant gently for 30 minutes to 1 hour to remove sediment and allow the wine to breathe. Be cautious not to over-decant, as older wines can be delicate.
Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors and aromas.
Conclusion
The Château Ausone 1982 is a rare and remarkable wine that offers a glimpse into one of Bordeaux’s greatest vintages. It is an extraordinary choice for collectors and connoisseurs who value the depth, complexity, and historical significance of aged wines.
Condition
upper shoulder - bin soiled label