The classic Mouton lead-pencil, cedary nose has begun to emerge. This medium dark ruby, elegant, medium-bodied wine will never be a great or legendary Mouton. The flavors are ripe and moderately rich. With good depth and some firm tannins to resolve, this offering from Mouton is bigger and richer than the 1981, 1979, or 1978. Austere by the standards of Mouton and the vintage, the 1983 resembles the chateau's fine 1966. The rich, complex, well-developed bouquet of oriental spices, toasty oak, herbs, and ripe fruit is wonderful. On the palate, the wine is also rich, forward, long, and sexy. It ranks behind both Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux in 1985. I am surprised by how evolved and ready to drink this wine is. Readers looking for a big, boldly constructed Mouton should search out other vintages, as this is a tame, forward, medium-weight wine that is close to full maturity. It is capable of lasting another 15+ years. This estate compares their 1985 to their 1959, but to me it is more similar to their 1962 or 1953. On the palate, the Château Mouton Rothschild 1985 presents itself as a wine of impressive structure and elegance. The tannins are silky and well-integrated, resulting in a smooth and harmonious mouthfeel. The intense fruit aromas continue on the palate, complemented by complex notes of spice, earth, and a light mineral component. The lively acidity lends the wine freshness and balance, while the finish is long and persistent, characterized by a harmonious blend of fruit, oak, and tertiary flavors.