14% abv, de la Maif/Château Dauzac, à Labarde, Gironde, imported by MISA Imports, Dallas, TX. Cork closure: natural. Biodynamic calendar: opened on flower day.
Second wines of ranked Châteaux can be a lovely surprise in good vintages, such is the case for this Aurore from cinquieme growth Châteaux Dauzac. 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, the vines come from a warm terroir in the south of the Margaux appellation situated nicely near the moderating waters of the Gironde River. Although the Château has been kicked around by bankers and investment firms the last few years (and no longer under management of the Lurton family) the 2015 vintage lives up to its potential. Impressively, the vines for this second cuvée the vines are over 30 years of age, and the wine is aged in 50% new French oak for a year.
This wine is medium ruby in color with a clean nose of medium+ intensity with aromas of dried rose petals, cedar, iron, graphite, leather, and juicy redcurrant and plum. On the palate this wine is dry with medium+ acid; the tannins are medium+, body is medium+, and the finish is medium+ with medium flavor intensity with flavors of eucalyptus, mint, Greek oregano, charred wood, vanilla, cream, fresh roast, Turkish figs, blueberry and black Japanese plum. This wine is superbly balanced and has a real drink ability factor; it’s on peak! Drink now or through 2025: 9.3/10!