An icon of Pauillac, Château Mouton Rothschild 2018 embodies the very idea of a great wine shaped like a work of art, designed to stand the test of time and to elevate the moment. A First Growth, it concentrates the nobility of its Médoc terroir into a modern, sculptural expression. The 2018 vintage, renowned for its depth and precision, offers a rich aromatic range dominated by blackcurrant and dark fruits, edged with delicate spices and a menthol lift. On the palate, richness meets grace, supported by a velvety tannic framework that reflects the Château's exacting standards. Aged in new oak barrels, this Pauillac unfolds a satin texture, a sustained rhythm and a finish that is both long and luminous. For the informed taster as well as the collector, it represents the obvious choice: a wine for keeping whose complexity reveals itself in layers with patience and attentive service.

Blend and vinification

In the purest left-bank tradition, the 2018 relies on a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc. Rigorous sorting and precise extraction capture the vintage's energy without harshness, favouring finesse in the tannic grain. The élevage takes place in new oak barrels, a hallmark of a style that combines breadth, aromatic clarity and definition. This choice refines the material, complicates the bouquet and gives the wine a polished, almost tactile mouthfeel. The result is a delicate balance between the Cabernet's uprightness and the Merlot's flesh, a composition where each variety plays its note with accuracy in service of a harmonious, dense ensemble that never feels heavy. The 2018 expresses itself through a dynamic of freshness and depth, the promise of a great future.

Tasting notes

• Colour: Deep and brilliant, with a dark, concentrated hue that suggests controlled power and fine phenolic richness, a guarantee of longevity.
• Nose: Complex and highly aromatic, with a core of blackcurrant, blackberry and black plum, lifted by sweet spices and a hint of menthol. Nuances of refined oak, finely integrated, indicate barrel ageing and add relief and depth.
• Palate: Broad and precise attack, silky texture and velvety tannins. The structure unfolds with energy, supported by a sapid freshness. The finish, persistent and noble, extends the dark fruits and spices with sovereign elegance.

Serving temperature and advice

Serve this First Growth at 16°C to preserve the purity of the fruit and the lace-like tannins. Careful aeration, whether by opening the bottle ahead of time or decanting, encourages the gradual emergence of the bouquet and enhances the wine's harmony. Store bottles on their side, away from light and temperature fluctuations, to respect the wine's natural rhythm. Young, it already shines with clarity and precision. Over time it will develop greater breadth, suppleness and complexity, revealing spicier facets and an even more caressing nobility of texture. Choose generous glasses to showcase its breathing, depth and length on the palate.

Food pairings

• Noble meats: herb-roasted saddle of lamb, reduced jus, glazed root vegetables.
• Delicate game: venison fillet, black berry sauce, creamy polenta.
• Aged beef: grilled rib, caramelised shallots, celery purée.
• Mushrooms: sautéed porcini, rich jus, Parmesan shavings.
• Mature cheeses: 36-month Comté, old mimolette, mountain tomme.

Tasting occasions

Château Mouton Rothschild 2018 is the perfect companion:

• To celebrate an exceptional dinner where each dish finds its echo in the wine's nobility and the precision of its structure.
• At an intimate tasting among enthusiasts, devoted to great Bordeaux that combine power, finesse and length.
• As an insider's gift, intended for a collector sensitive to the beauty of a racé Pauillac, designed to age and reveal itself gracefully.

Characteristics

• Name: Château Mouton Rothschild 2018
• Appellation: Pauillac AOC
• Classification: First Growth
• Type: Red wine
• Vintage: 2018
• Grapes: Majority Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc
• Ageing: New oak barrels
• Potential: Age-worthy wine
• Serving temperature: 16°C