Château Mouton Rothschild (1998)
SommeliAI Insights
A deeply colored Pauillac blend with aromas of black fruit, leather, and mocha, leading to a powerful, elegant finish.
About this wine
The 1998 Château Mouton Rothschild presents a deep purple-red hue, indicative of its richness. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of blackcurrant, leather, and mineral notes, with subtle hints of mocha emerging upon aeration. The palate is well-structured, featuring a fresh attack that transitions into a mid-palate with surprising volume and depth, supported by powerful yet smooth tannins. The finish is both powerful and elegant, leaving a lasting impression. This vintage is notable for its label artwork by Mexican painter Rufino Tamayo, adding an artistic touch to its presentation.
About the grape
In the 1998 Château Mouton Rothschild, the blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon (86%), complemented by Merlot (12%) and Cabernet Franc (2%). Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in Pauillac's gravelly soils, contributing to the wine's structure and longevity. Merlot adds softness and roundness, balancing the tannins, while the small percentage of Cabernet Franc introduces subtle aromatic complexity. This combination reflects the estate's commitment to crafting wines with depth and aging potential.
Quick facts
- 🎨 The 1998 Château Mouton Rothschild label features artwork by Mexican painter Rufino Tamayo, known for his vibrant and expressive style.
- 🍇 The 1998 vintage is composed of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, showcasing the estate's classic blend.
- 🏆 Château Mouton Rothschild is the only estate to have been promoted to First Growth status in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, achieving this in 1973.
- 📜 The estate's motto, 'Premier je suis, Second je fus, Mouton ne change,' reflects its unique elevation from Second to First Growth status.
- 🌦️ The 1998 vintage experienced a challenging growing season with variable weather, yet produced a wine noted for its depth and elegance.
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.
