Winery: Chateau Mouton Rothschild

Country / Region: France / Bordeaux

Date Winery was established: 1853

Alcohol / Volume: 13% / 750ml

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

First Vintage released: 1874

Ratings: 96 pts. Wine Cellar Insider

Good to know: The Château started life as Brane-Mouton, and was among the best in Bordeaux through the 18th and early 19th Centuries, although there was a dip in quality and price in the 1840s. The Rothschild family bought (and renamed) the property in 1853 and quickly restored its reputation, but not in time for the 1855 Classification of Médoc wines, in which Mouton was only ranked a second growth wine. Lafite, Latour, Margaux and Haut-Brion attained Premier Cru Classé status.

The grand vin is among the most highly rated and priced wines in the world, and is generally regarded as the most exuberant and powerful of all Bordeaux. It was famously added to the First Growths set out in the 1855 Classification in 1973.

Mouton's parent company, Baron Phillippe de Rothschild SA, also owns the Pauillac Châteaux d'Armailhac and Clerc Milon, Domaine de Baronarques in Limoux and various other wine brands. In partnership, it also owns Almaviva in Chile and Opus One in California, which began as a collaboration with Robert Mondavi. A different branch of the Rothschild family owns the adjacent Château Lafite-Rothschild property.

In 2003, the year was marked by a heatwave summer and an early vintage. Following a cold and dry winter, spring received 37% less rainfall than the average of the past 40 years. August saw exceptionally high temperatures, often exceeding 40°C, and lower than usual rainfall for the season.

Despite these conditions, the deep-rooted vines were able to withstand the lack of water and yield a bountiful harvest of healthy, vibrant, and tannic grapes.

Mouton Rothschild 2003 stands out as a notable achievement in recent times. This wine boasts a striking deep garnet color with a sophisticated aroma, showcasing classic Cabernet notes of blackcurrant and cedarwood, complemented by hints of caramel and stewed fruit. The palate offers a luxurious experience, with rich fruit flavors mingling harmoniously with spices, Havana cigar, and eucalyptus, all supported by well-rounded tannins. The finish is remarkable, displaying great length and power, delivering a silky and harmonious conclusion.