Chateau Mouton Rothschild 2005 - 3 Litre Bottle

Mouton Rothschild is one of the five "first growths" in the 1855 classification of the great wines of Bordeaux, and it does not disappoint. This is one of the great wines of Bordeaux, and 2005 is one of the best years in the last 15. Mouton is known for being primarily based on Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2005 is no exception - 85% of the blend is Cabernet, with the balance being Merlot (14%) and Cabernet Franc (1%). The wine has an attractive colour, dark and deep, and an elegant, complex nose that combines refined notes of oak, toast and vanilla with intense, wild berry fruit. Touches of mint and spice complete the bouquet. The palate is both powerful and substantial, revealing attractively close-knit, juicy and succulent tannins combined with concentrated blackcurrant and blackberry flavours that reinforce the impression of fullness of flavour. The finish is very long, carried by a touch of sweetness and the perfect expression of rich, ripe Cabernet Sauvignon typical of great Pauillac vintages. This 3 litre bottle - the equivalent of 4 regular bottles - is impressive. The only issue with buying one is that you'd have to bring yourself to open it with a group of friends, hopefully good friends!

A superb Mouton, the 2005 is composed of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and a dollop of Cabernet Franc. Under the new administrator, Philippe Dalhuin, the strictest selection of any recent vintage was instituted (64% of the production was used), and the 2005's 13.5% natural alcohol is one of the highest ever achieved at this estate. 98 Points - Wine Spectator Gorgeous, with singed alder and juniper notes starting to strut their stuff, while the immense core of steeped red currant, blackberry and plum fruit continues to wait in reserve. A light sanguine thread weaves in on the back end, which is driven by a serious bolt of iron. Shows terrific grip, length and cut. A brick-house Pauillac built for the long haul.

98 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate     Technical Director/Chief Winemaker Philippe Dhalluin said this was a special year for him, because he considers it his first great vintage, he started in 2004. Deep garnet with hint of brick, the 2005 Mouton Rothschild is evolving into unabashed, flamboyant notes of Christmas cake, plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries, eucalyptus and creme de cassis with beautifully fragrant wafts of potpourri, incense, Indian spices and cigar box. Full-bodied, the palate performs vinous pirouettes with dazzling exotic spice, floral and earthy nuances, framed by firm, grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced.