1996 Le Petit Mouton
By Chateau Mouton Rothschild
1996 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of Bordeaux vintages, uniquely compelling narratives are oft found, and the splendor encapsulated in the 1996 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild articulates a distinct chapter for Pauillac. A year that etched its mark as one of precision and classic structure, it provided the canvas on which this esteemed wine painted its masterstroke.
A Vintage Serenade in a Bottle
The 1996 vintage in Pauillac was one characterized by a dry and sunny season, ensuring impeccable ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon, the protagonist in this harmonious blend. Le Petit Mouton, the second vin of Château Mouton Rothschild, catches the collector's eye with its finesse and early approachability. Yet, it is precisely within this vintage that it discovers its most confident voice.
This stellar wine reveals itself with an aromatic complexity where blackcurrant and tobacco intertwine with subtle whispers of cedar and spice. Texturally elegant, the palate is greeted by firm but polished tannins, a testament to the exquisite savoir-faire behind each bottle from Château Mouton Rothschild. The finish, graciously enduring, leaves a lingering sonnet of dark fruit and minerality.
A Pauillac Emblem Tailored for Investment Elegance
Securing an opulent yet sublime selection such as the 1996 Le Petit Mouton for one’s investment portfolio speaks volumes of an investor’s acumen. Its impressive aging potential ensures a prosperous evolution within both cellar and market - a Pauillac treasure evolving gloriously with time.
Effectively capturing the spirit of its lineage and the excellence of its appellation, 1996 Le Petit Mouton exudes class and intricacy, standing as a cornerstone for those invested in the heritage-laden tapestry that is Bordeaux winemaking. Each glass poured from these cellared jewels reaffirms why Pauillac remains an undeniable force in fine wine investment.
Imbued with all that makes 1996 a remarkable year for Bordeaux – structure, distinction, and grace – Le Petit Mouton offers a consummate piece de resistance; one truly worthy of adorning any serious investor’s collection.
Market price (USD)
$3,750.00
12x75cl
Highest score
90
POP score
307
Scores and tasting notes
Very deep hue. Deep broody nose of black cherries, plum and minerals. Very Pauillac in style, quite complex and a lot of new oak. Full-bodied, tannic, muscular, with sweet black fruits, touch of cherry and an almost citrusy freshness. Firm grip with a foursquare finish. Very classic. Again needs 2-3 years but great potential. Tasted September 2006.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal