Parker about Château Mouton Rothschild 2002
Tasted blind as a vintage comparison at the Valandraud vertical, the 2002 Mouton-Rothschild is a wine that burned brightly in its youth, although recent encounters suggest that maybe it is beginning to flag as it enters what you might call middle age. Here, it has a conservative bouquet with blackberry, cedar, warm bricks and melted tar aromas - an unfussy, uncomplicated, quite serious Pauillac bouquet. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity. It feels lively on the entry with fine tannin, a Mouton that is nimble on its feet with a gentle grip towards the finish, which offers a satisfying aftertaste of spice and clove. It does not reflect some of the outstanding bottles I consumed within the first decade of its life, and peering into this First Growth, it is difficult to see whether it will repay those who cellar it longer. Tasted December 2016.
Description
Land | France |
Region | Bordeaux-Pauillac |
Rebsorten | Cabernet Sauvignon 78%, Merlot 12%, Cabernet Franc 9%, Petit Verdot 1% |
Alkoholgehalt | 13.00% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | cork stopper |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | Red |
Inverkehrbringer | Château Mouton Rothschild, Lieu-Dit Le Pouyalet, 33250 Pauillac, France |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 10-12°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 2015 - 2045 |
Parker Punkte | 91 |
Jahrgang | 2002 |
Bordeaux-Pauillac, France 🇫🇷
Goes well with

Château Mouton Rothschild 2002

The 2002 Château Mouton Rothschild is a classic Pauillac from a vintage that produced complex and structured wines thanks to cooler weather. Despite the challenges of the vintage, the 2002 Mouton Rothschild demonstrates the château's ability to produce wines of remarkable quality even in difficult years.
In the glass, the wine presents a deep ruby red, reflecting its youthfulness and vigor. The bouquet is elegant and refined, characterized by aromas of black fruits such as cassis, blackberries, and black cherries, accompanied by subtle notes of cedarwood, tobacco, and graphite. Barrel aging imparts subtle hints of vanilla, mocha, and a light toasted note, beautifully rounding out the aromatic profile.
On the palate, the Château Mouton Rothschild 2002 presents itself as medium to full-bodied, with remarkable structure and firm yet well-integrated tannins. The fruit flavors continue powerfully, supported by a lively acidity that lends the wine freshness and elegance. Notes of black pepper, leather, and a mineral nuance are added, lending the wine additional depth and complexity.
The finish is long and persistent, with a harmonious aftertaste of dark fruits and a delicate spice that elegantly concludes the wine. The Château Mouton Rothschild 2002 is already approachable, but will gain further depth and complexity in the coming years.
This wine pairs perfectly with hearty meat dishes such as lamb or game, as well as with mature cheeses. It offers a structured and elegant drinking experience that impressively expresses the characteristics of the 2002 vintage and the excellence of Château Mouton Rothschild.