Mouton Rothschild 2007

Medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, licorice, graphite, chocolate, menthol and flowers, lifted by a light peppery note. Dense, sweet and round, with a lovely mineral pungency accentuating the impression of terroir There's nothing hard about this suave, voluminous wine, which comes across as richer and lusher than its 12.7% alcohol would suggest. The slow-building finish features subtle minerally persistence.

There is power on the nose but behind the rich black fruits are hints of red giving a racy freshness. The palate has the same mix of depth and power and leaner freshness, the rich plum and blackcurrant refreshed by bilberry and bramble. The finish is very long and elegant with a touch of green pepper adding some spice.

Black-red, exotic blackcurrant fruit, but more restrained than usual, shows great clarity and class with more precision of fruit than in the 1990s, a very fine wine that will give enormous pleasure. Drink 2013-25. 4 stars.

Composed of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, the deep purple-colored 2007 Mouton reveals sweet aromas of creme de cassis, subtle oak, and flowers. Medium to full-bodied and elegant with sweet tannin as well as flavors and a texture that build incrementally on the palate, this strong effort should evolve over the next 15 years. Drink 2010-2025.

No tasting note given.

Upon first pouring - very little. But after five minutes it develops quite a precocious nose with ripe blackberries, a touch of dark chocolate, smoke and sous-bois. Very well defined. The palate is full-bodied with firm, dense, ripe tannins; very harmonious and excellent delineation. It does not have the depth of a great Mouton-Rothschild, but it is very focused with a much more reserved than usual finish with crisp blackberry, briary, cedar and a touch of black plum. What I like is the lingering aftertaste that exhibits great purity and refinement. Bon Vin - one of the finest Mouton’s of recent years. Tasted April 2008.