The 2018 Mouton-Rothschild is an exceptional Bordeaux blend that showcases the elegance and finesse of this renowned estate. With a deep garnet-purple color, this wine immediately captures attention with its vibrant and lively appearance.
On the nose, the aromas are simply exquisite, displaying a remarkable purity of black currants, raspberries, and hints of citrus. These aromas flow gracefully from the glass, enticing the senses with their allure.
The palate is a true testament to the artistry of winemaking, as this full-bodied red wine envelops the palate with its seamless tannins. The texture is velvety and refined, coating the palate and then gently falling into the center. The result is a harmonious and thoroughly refined experience that lingers on the palate with an endless finish.
This vintage is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, with a splash of Petit Verdot. It has a relatively modest alcohol percentage of 14.5%, which is remarkable considering the ripeness of the tannins.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awards this wine a perfect score of 100, describing it as the new 1959, one of the legendary vintages of Mouton. He suggests trying it after 2026, allowing the wine to further develop its tightly tucked away nuances.
Wine Enthusiast also awards this wine a near-perfect score of 99, noting its dense structure, powerful tannins, and intense black fruits. They predict that this wine will age magnificently and recommend waiting until at least 2029 to enjoy its full potential.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praises this wine with a score of 99, highlighting its deep garnet-purple color and vibrant notes of crushed blackcurrants and juicy blackberries. The palate is described as a brick house, with super firm, ripe, and grainy tannins that support the muscular black fruits. The finish is long and savory, with lingering mineral suggestions.
This wine has also received high praise from other reputable critics such as Jeff Leve, Decanter, Jeb Dunnuck, Vinous, Wine Spectator, and Jane Anson. Each reviewer commends the wine's concentration, balance, and complexity, predicting that it will age gracefully for decades.
In conclusion, the 2018 Mouton-Rothschild is a truly remarkable Bordeaux blend that embodies the essence of this esteemed estate. With its exquisite purity, seamless tannins, and endless finish, this wine is a testament to the art of winemaking. It is a wine that promises to evolve and improve over the course of 25 years or more, making it a true gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike.