Producer: Château Mouton Rothschild, one of the five First Growths of Bordeaux, needs no introduction. Its iconic label and bold character have established it as a legend in the realm of fine wine.
Vineyard: Nestled on the "Plateau de Mouton," the estate's vineyard boasts prime gravelly soil and meticulous planting. Cabernet Sauvignon thrives here, forming the backbone of the blend (81%), complemented by Merlot (15%), Cabernet Franc (3%), and Petit Verdot (1%). The specific proportions vary with each vintage, showcasing the unique personality of each year.
Vintage: 1993 presented a rollercoaster of weather. Early warmth spurred budbreak, followed by cool periods and rain in spring and summer. Yet, sunshine returned in August, leading to rapid ripening. While September rains impacted yields, the grapes remained healthy and brimming with flavour.
Tasting notes: This 1993 vintage boasts a deep, garnet colour with hints of orange. The nose explodes with complex aromas of blackcurrant, leather, and cold smoke, woven with delicate caramel notes. The palate is round and forward, bursting with rich, warm flavours of humus and black fruit. The tannins are beautifully polished, lending velvety texture to the mid-palate. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering echo of warmth on the tongue.
Label Art: The 1993 Mouton Rothschild label is a controversial piece of art. The original label, designed by Balthus, features a nude young girl reclining on a hillside. The label was deemed inappropriate by some US retailers and customs officials and was banned in the US. A plain cream-colored label with the Château Mouton Rothschild name and vintage prominently displayed was used for bottles sold in the US. Bottles with the original Balthus label are now highly sought-after by collectors due to their rarity.
Critics' Acclaim:
16.5/20 by Jancis Robinson
Technical information:
- Region/Appellation: Pauillac, Bordeaux
- Classification:1er Grand Cru Classé
- Drinking Window: 2002 to 2025 (though with good cellaring, it can still evolve gracefully for years to come)
- Alcohol ABV: 12.5%
- Sweetness: Dry
- Blend: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc
- Oak Type: French
- Winemaker: Patrick Léon
- Harvest Date: 23rd September - 10th October
- Closure Type: Cork
A Collectible Gem:
This 1993 Château Mouton Rothschild is a remarkable expression of a classic vintage. Its complexity, elegance, and aging potential make it a true collector's item.
