Château Ausone, 1er Grand Cru Classé, St Emilion,

The 2008 Ausone has a dark hue with just slight aging on the rim. It has an introspective nose: black fruit, melted tar, cracked black pepper and a background of dried blood/meaty scents. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins; it's a little austere for Ausone and is strict and drier than more benevolent vintages. Saline towards the finish that exerts a gentle grip. I would afford this another couple of years in bottle. Tasted at the château.