A ripe, port-like nose of dried fruits, herbs, old tea, and minerals made for an intriguing set of aromatics. In the mouth, the wine reveals more sweetness and fat than one expects from Ausone, but an underlying pruny quality suggested the fruit was more than merely overripe. Hard tannin, acidity, and earthiness were noticeable in the background, but overall this was a good to excellent wine, with its positive attributes outweighing the more troublesome ones. Last tasted 3/97

Probably on the down slope, as indicated by the smoky-brown color on the rim, but a rich taste experience anyway. Has aromas of earth and tobacco, with broad, chocolaty flavors and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Drink through 2000.--1961 Bordeaux horizontal. -