2013 Mouton Rothschild
By Chateau Mouton Rothschild
2013 Mouton Rothschild from Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 2013 vintage from the storied Chateau Mouton Rothschild emerged from a challenging growing season in Pauillac, a stern test of this illustrious estate's unparalleled viticultural and winemaking prowess. As a year plagued with whimsical weather patterns, with record rainfall and a cool summer leading to a late harvest, the 2013 Mouton Rothschild indeed showcases the deft touch of an adept vintner.
A Vintage Risen from Adversity
The stringent selective picking employed by the chateau ensured that only grapes of the highest quality found their way into this year's assemblage. A blend primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2013 vintage reveals how adversity can be artfully woven into an intricate tapestry of flavours.
On the palate, one appreciates how the cooler climate has instilled a vivacious acidity, harmoniously balanced with modest tannins. Imagine a symphony where dark fruited notes play the sombre violins, while hints of cigar box cedar and graphite act as the commanding brass section. The finish, gracefully persistent, bears testament to the age-worthy structure inherently bestowed upon wines born of struggle.
Tempered Expectation with Delicate Rewards
Although not heralded as one of the iconic vintages of its generation, owing to challenges mother nature presented during its creation, there lies an understated elegance within this resilient vintage. Serious wine investors should consider the 2013 Mouton Rothschild as a potential sleeper-hit; a more subtle yet complex offering that will pleasantly surprise when given due reflection time within one's cellar.
In summation, the 2013 Mouton Rothschild from Chateau Mouton Rothschild - standing amidst unpredictable climatic conditions - has been cultivated into a wine that epitomises tenacity and craftsmanship. It is a robust addition to any fine wine investment portfolio, promising nuanced maturation over time for the discerning collector.
Market price (SGD)
$6,840.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
315.38
Scores and tasting notes
The Grand Vin is a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, the latter close to exceptional according to Philippe Dhalluin. It has less new oak (85%) because the new wooden vats impart their own raw woody character. It has a well-defined, classic bouquet that you might describe as "no frills". It does not have the usual Mouton flamboyance although that is not necessarily a bad thing. The palate is well balanced with clean and mineral-rich black fruit and a pleasant salty character towards the finish. Classic in style, this is a very fine Mouton with real panache. Tasted April 2014.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal
The 2013 Mouton-Rothschild has a conservative, straight-laced, tobacco-stained bouquet, nicely defined but lacking genuine depth. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, balanced with tobacco and red berry fruit, moderate depth with touches of dried herbs lining the finish. I can imagine this becoming approachable within a couple of years and yet the pedigree of the terroir percolates through with aeration. While not a great Mouton-Rothschild by any stretch of the imagination, this is a strong effort in a difficult vintage.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
The 2013 Mouton Rothschild is the best of the Medoc first-growths in this vintage. It was the smallest crop at Mouton since 1969, even smaller than their 1991. Only 45% of the crop made it into the final blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. One of the few 2013s to reveal serious depth, it displays a dense saturated ruby/purple color along with spicy creme de cassis, licorice and forest floor characteristics. Elegant, medium-bodied and more concentrated than most of its peers, it even reveals some tannins, suggesting 2-5 years of bottle age may be needed. It should last for 15-20 years. Kudos to administrator Philippe Dhalluin.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #214 Aug 2014