1989 Mouton Rothschild
By Chateau Mouton Rothschild
The 1989 Mouton Rothschild from Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
When one reflects on the 1989 Mouton Rothschild from Chateau Mouton Rothschild, it’s akin to pondering a rich tapestry of vinous history. This remarkable vintage resonates with the wisdom of ancient vines and a season that favoured them immensely.
An Epitome of Elegance and Complexity
The 1989 vintage in Pauillac was bestowed with an almost divine blessing – a serene balance of climate and conditions that offered the perfect milieu for crafting exquisite wine. The 1989 Mouton Rothschild stands as a testament to this serendipity. It presents an arresting bouquet, which reveals subtle hints of blackcurrant, allspice, and the signature Pauillac cassis. Each decant unlocks another layer of its complex character.
Investing Beyond Flavours
With each passing year, the 1989 Mouton Rothschild mellows further, its tannins becoming increasingly supple, underscoring the essential patience required to appreciate such a distinguished creation. Notably for investors, this particular vintage continues to mature with grace, suggesting that its peak expression is a luxurious promissory note for the future.
In the glass, the deep garnet hue encircles a core of undeniable vitality. On the palate, the synthesis of fruit, earthiness, and well-integrated wood are seamless – a hallmark of the laudable craftsmanship at Chateau Mouton Rothschild. The finish on this Pauillac marvel is both stately and enduring.
In summary, for connoisseurs seeking to enrich their portfolios with exemplary vintages, the 1989 Mouton Rothschild offers not just a delectable experience but also a bourgeoning chapter in wine investment. Its unmistakable poise and depth render it one of the more desirable treasures from Bordeaux's Pauillac appellation.
Market price (GBP)
£4,800.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
320
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Handford's 21st anniversary tasting. The Mouton '89 is a lovely Pauillac that has reached its plateau of maturity. It has an engaging cedar-scented bouquet touches of cigar box, mint and a touch of Italian cooked meats. Very well defined, very 'old school'. The palate is medium-bodied and very harmonious with grainy tannins. It continues the aromatic theme of cedar and tobacco, relatively foursquare compared to Pichon-Baron of Lynch Bages, with a slightly leafy finish that demonstrates great persistency. It is very 'classic' in style, restrained, elegant and bearing similarities to Lafite. Drink now-2030. Tasted October 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2010
Tasted from magnum and presented by Baron Philippe Sereys de Rothschild, the 1989 Château Mouton-Rothschild might not reach the ethereal heights of the 1982 or 1986, but it is certainly a lovely Claret. It has an attractive, slightly leafy bouquet armed with cedar and pencil lead. There is less fruit concentration than I expected, resolutely classic, slightly austere Bordeaux. The palate follows suit. What it lacks in substance it compensates with in balance and personality. This is an understated Mouton-Rothschild that is probably at its peak, although I envisage this offering another two decades of pleasure. Whilst this showing did not replicate some glorious bottles in the past, it remains a very fine Claret that may not be inclined to improve any further. Tasted February 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 January 2017
Considering the vintages and the estate, Mouton's performances in 1989 and 1990 are puzzling. I have tasted these wines multiple times since my last reviews appeared in print. The 1989 Mouton-Rothschild is the superior wine, but in no sense is this a compelling wine if compared to the Moutons produced in 1995, 1986, and 1982. The 1989 displays a dark ruby color that is already beginning to reveal significant lightening at the edge. The bouquet is surprisingly evolved, offering up scents of cedar, sweet black fruits, lead pencil, and toasty oak. This elegant, medium-bodied restrained wine is beautifully made, stylish, and not dissimilar to the 1985. It is an excellent to outstanding Mouton that should be close to full maturity in 4-5 years; it will drink well for 15-20.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #109 Feb 1997