The 1962 Mouton-Rothschild is a vintage I have not encountered for quite some time. This bottle is a convincing follow-up to the monumental 1961. It begins a little muted on the nose, with notes of black fruit laced with cigar smoke and tobacco leaf, showing perhaps just a hint of VA. It’s compelling nonetheless. The palate is quite sweet on the entry—quite fleshy and sensual, with lovely balance. Dare I say I might pin it down as a Right Bank if tasted blind? There is so much energy in situ. This closes quite edgy on the marmalade-tinged finish. Wonderful. -- Neal Martin

Surprisingly youthful despite the light garnet and brown edges with young raspberry notes tobacco box aromas and cassis notes. Developed beautiful coffee mint and chocolate tones in the glass. Drink now.--Mouton-Rothschild vertical. –PM

In earlier editions of this book I complained about bottle variation but three tastings over the last several years from bottles that had been perfectly stored revealed a splendid wine. The 1962 is extremely fragrant with a dark garnet color revealing lightening at the edge. A sweet nose of jammy black fruits cedar and smoke is followed by a velvety-textured medium to full-bodied wine with no hard edges. It is a compellingly rich opulent Mouton that appears to have gained character and complexity with age. Anticipated maturity: Now-2008. Last tasted 10/97