In Bond Fine Wine. 2002 Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France. First Growth • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 93/100 (RP). Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Château Mouton Rothschild is one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated estates - a First Growth that blends artistic flair with technical excellence and bold, expressive wines. Originally classified as a Second Growth in 1855, it became the only château to be elevated to First Growth status in 1973, thanks to the tireless efforts of Baron Philippe de Rothschild. Since then, Mouton has become a symbol of luxury and creativity, famously commissioning a different artist each year - Picasso, Warhol, Hockney, among others - to design its label. The label and artist reveal is always keenly anticipated. Mouton is known for itsr opulence, richness, and ageing potential - typically more flamboyant and exotic in style than its First Growth peers, with layers of cassis, cedar, spice, and polished tannins. Mouton’s recent vintages - 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022 - have received widespread acclaim, many scoring perfect or near perfect ratings from the leading critics. Mouton Rothschild continues to stand as one of the most dynamic First Growths, and its distinctive style and prestige make it a collector’s favourite.
James Suckling (JS) — 91/100 · Wine Spectator, 31/03/2005 · Drink 2009+
Complex aromas of tobacco, cedar, berry and currants. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and ripe tannins. Not as good as a barrel sample tasted earlier, but still outstanding for the vintage. Best after 2009.
Robert Parker (RP) — 93/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/04/2005 · Drink 2015-2030+
Dense purple to the rim, this wine exhibits the classic cassis aroma that is so characteristic of Mouton. Medium to full-bodied, tannic, powerful, and cut somewhat from the 1988 mold, this is a backward, chewy, well-endowed Mouton-Rothschild that will require considerable patience from those who purchase it. A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, th…
Neal Martin (NM) — 92/100 · Vinous, 2022-09-27 · Drink 2022-2042
The 2002 Mouton-Rothschild, which was made by the late Patrick Leon, has a well-defined bouquet with pretty blackberry and graphite scents, quite precise and focused. This has matured well in bottle. The palate is medium-bodied with a cohesive entry, youthful, not amazingly complex and perhaps towards the end the limitations of the growing season impinge upon complexity. A touch of dark chocolate…