Mouton Rothschild 1997

An evolved, brickish colour with a slightly orange tint. The wine has an intense nose on aromas of leather, hyacinth and tobacco. On the palate, it is round and fruity along with persisting and fine tannins. The fruit, with spicy and smoky notes, offer a long-lasting finish.

Only 55% of the harvest was utilized for the 1997 Mouton-Rothschild. One of the most forward and developed Moutons over recent years, it possesses all the charm and fleshiness this vintage can provide. A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, the wine exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, and an open-knit nose of cedar wood, blackberry liqueur, cassis, and coffee. Fleshy, ripe, and mouth-filling, with low acidity, soft tannin, and admirable concentration and length, this delicious Pauillac will be drinkable in 2-3 years, and should age for 15+. It is an impressive effort for this vintage.

Very good Mouton, but not outstanding; lacks a bit of fruit in the center palate. Good dark ruby color, with lovely mineral, spice and currant aromas. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a light, fruity finish.

82% CS, 13% M, 3% CF, 2% PV. Very dense, dark and opaque. Lovely sweetness here, with fine, fine quality on the nose of charry, toasty, espresso and a gorgeous sweetness of fruit; cherry, cassis and some exotic spice. The palate is fine too, with good texture and ripe tannins bolstering quite robust, full fruit. Plenty of cedar and smokiness too, and lovely length. Thought the Lafite has the more intriguing nose perhaps, this wine sneaks it overall and seems to be just starting to come together. Excellent.