2011 Le Petit Mouton
By Chateau Mouton Rothschild
2011 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
In the world of fine wines, the 2011 vintage of Bordeaux presents as a narrative of triumph over challenge. Nestled within this compelling chronicle, the 2011 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild embodies a testament to the tenacity and skill of its creators. Navigating an erratic growing season that required acute adaptability, Château Mouton Rothschild harnessed their storied expertise to foster a vintage notable for its deft balance and astute structure.
Provenance and poise: A worthy investment
The story of the 2011 growing season is one of resilience; a spring rife with dryness was followed by a summer that toggled between heat and storm, concluding in a harvest begging meticulous selection. For investors and connoisseurs alike, the result is an iteration of Le Petit Mouton that encapsulates not only the richness expected from Pauillac but also an extraordinary demonstration of poised winemaking.
On the palate, this wine brandishes a vibrancy that is illustrative of the concentrated fruits garnered from the unyielding efforts amidst 2011's climatic capriciousness. Redolent of ripe blackberries and nuanced by refined tannins and an undercurrent of oak-derived vanilla; this vintage exudes sophistication. Its vitality bespeaks both immediate gratification and an assured potential for splendid maturation.
A storied addition to any portfolio
The 2011 Le Petit Mouton emerges as a compelling choice for collectors seeking out resilient vintages with distinct narratives. It stands as evidence that even in less heralded years, esteemed producers like Château Mouton Rothschild can craft wines of exceptional character and investment merit.
While some critics hastily overlook such vintages for their blockbuster counterparts, the savvy investor understands that these bottles can hold unique value. As it continues its elegant evolution, the 2011 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild promises to be a remarkable chapter in any discerning wine afficionado's collection.
Market price (GBP)
£2,200.00
12x75cl
Highest score
91
POP score
200
Scores and tasting notes
A wine with blueberry and currant character, and very firm tannins. It's full-bodied, with integrated tannins and a beautiful finish. Love the hazelnut and berry character. Second wine of Mouton. Better after 2019.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014
The Le Petit Mouton 2011 is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot and includes some plots once destined for the Grand Vin. Tasted two weeks apart, the first sample in March 2012 has an opulent bouquet for the vintage with luscious cassis and raspberry aromas, struck through with creamy new oak (perhaps from the 60% new oak.) The second in April appears less extrovert but demonstrates better refinement. The palate has a sharp entry; indeed it is quite an angular primeur sample although there is patently a lot of fruit concentration. It has a fine graphite and bay leaf finish with a pointed citric edge. This is a tensile Le Petit Mouton, not exhibiting weight or power but more precision and Pauillac austerity. There is nothing wrong with that. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
The dark ruby-hued 2011 Le Petit Mouton reveals foresty, floral, and berry fruit notes, medium body, and a one-dimensional, but pleasant style. Consume it over the next 10-15 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014
The dark ruby-hued 2011 Le Petit Mouton reveals foresty, floral, and berry fruit notes, medium body, and a one-dimensional, but pleasant style. Consume it over the next 10-15 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014