1996 Duhart-Milon Rothschild
By Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild
1996 Duhart-Milon Rothschild from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 1996 vintage stands as a particularly noteworthy year in the illustrious annals of Bordeaux, and more specifically in the hallowed halls of Pauillac. It is within this prestigious appellation that we find the work of profound heritage and quiet confidence: the 1996 Duhart-Milon Rothschild from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild.
A Testament to Terroir and Time
Investors and connoisseurs often muse upon the ability of Pauillac vintages to transcend time. The 1996 Duhart-Milon Rothschild is a resounding affirmation of such capabilities. The season was marked by a splendid summer, paving the way for an optimal maturity of the grapes. This vintage encapsulates an era when cabernet sauvignon reached its apogee of expression on this estate’s storied gravelly soils.
Vintage Character: The Quintessence of Pauillac
The maturation journey gifts us with a wine that possesses mature, softened tannins, yet retains a backbone of vivacious acidity that underpins its structure exquisitely. A bouquet of dark berries, cedarwood, and subtle earthy undertones greet the olfactory senses, while on the palate, layers unfold to reveal complex hints of cassis, tobacco and graphite — hallmarks of a classic Pauillac.
This particular bottle offers both immediate gratification and immense potential for future appreciation, appealing equally to sensory indulgence and intelligent investment. It is a paragon of how the climate's minutiae can be captured within a bottle; each sip is a testament to the meticulous viticulture and winemaking prowess at Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild.
In sum, for those looking to diversify their cellar portfolio with a legendary libation from Bordeaux's famed left bank, the 1996 Duhart-Milon Rothschild emerges as an intelligent choice. Balanced impeccably between maturity and longevity, it promises further evolution with steadfast poise—a vintage that not only tells the story of its year but continues to write its chronicles in each cork pulled.
Market price (USD)
$960.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
60.77
Scores and tasting notes
A much more intense cedar, blackberry nose. Still quite backward and classic in style. Well-structured palate, good definition, fresh, cedary, pencil-shavings. Robust on the finish. Masculine, but very class indeed. Needs 10+ years. Tasted September 2006.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal
The 1996 Duhart-Milon-Rothschild is aging in wonderful fashion, to wit, a straight down the fairway Pauilliac. Now at 20 years of age, it has developed a fresh and very brine-scented bouquet with plenty of undergrowth and bell pepper aromas. You could almost imagine a bit of Loire Cabernet Franc in here! The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip on the entry, impressive body and backbone, likewise more than enough freshness on the structured finish laced with white pepper and bell pepper. Very classic in style, this is a Duhart for traditionalists, but I for one appreciate its style. It is drinking perfectly now but will continue to offer pleasure for another 20 years. Tasted July 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
A strong case can be made that this is the finest Duhart produced since the 1982. The color is a saturated dark ruby/purple. The bouquet offers aromas of blackberry fruit intermixed with licorice, minerals, and dried herbs. Rich and intense, with considerable finesse, medium to full body, and outstanding concentration and purity, this should be a reasonably priced wine. It reflects the increased attention Lafite's administrator, Charles Chevalier, has been giving this nearby estate. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #122 April 1999