Château Mouton Rothschild (1987)

About this wine

The 1987 Château Mouton Rothschild presents a dark red color with an orange hue at the rim. On the nose, it reveals aromas of raspberry and cherry, complemented by hints of humus and leather. The palate is elegant and fresh, featuring vanilla flavors, well-integrated tannins, and a silky texture. The finish is harmonious, with lingering ripe fruit and spice notes. This vintage was the last overseen by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, and the label features artwork by Swiss artist Hans Erni, paying tribute to the Baron's legacy.

About the grape

Château Mouton Rothschild's vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, each contributing uniquely to their wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape, thrives in the deep gravelly soils, providing rich tannins and aging potential. Merlot adds suppleness and roundness, while Cabernet Franc contributes finesse and a peppery aroma. Petit Verdot, though used sparingly, enhances color and structure. Notably, some of Mouton's vines date back to 1890, among the oldest in Bordeaux.

Quick facts

• 🎨 The 1987 Château Mouton Rothschild label features a portrait of Baron Philippe de Rothschild, designed by Swiss artist Hans Erni, as a tribute following the Baron's passing in 1988.
• 🖼️ Château Mouton Rothschild is renowned for commissioning a different artist each year to design its labels, with contributors including Picasso, Dalí, and Warhol.
• 🏆 In 1973, after extensive lobbying by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild was elevated from Second Growth to First Growth status, the only change ever made to the 1855 Bordeaux classification.
• 🐏 The vineyard's emblem is a ram, symbolizing the name 'Mouton,' which translates to 'sheep' in French, though it actually derives from the old French word 'motte,' meaning 'hill.'
• 🍇 The 1987 vintage blend consists of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc, showcasing the estate's commitment to traditional Bordeaux varietals.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Mouton Rothschild, located in Pauillac, France, was acquired in 1853 by Baron Nathaniel de Rothschild, who renamed it from Château Brane-Mouton. In 1924, his great-grandson, Baron Philippe de Rothschild, revolutionized the estate by initiating château bottling, ensuring quality control. He also began the tradition of commissioning renowned artists, such as Picasso and Dalí, to design unique labels for each vintage, blending fine wine with fine art. After decades of lobbying, the estate was elevated to First Growth status in 1973, the only change ever made to the 1855 Bordeaux classification. Today, the winery remains under the stewardship of the Rothschild family, producing wines celebrated for their complexity and depth.