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2003 Le Petit Mouton
By Chateau Mouton Rothschild
2003 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
Cast your gaze upon the 2003 vintage, and you encounter a year that was nothing short of climatic bravura - an extreme growing season that chiselled its traits into the grapes grown in Bordeaux's cherished soils. The 2003 Le Petit Mouton, the second wine from the iconic Château Mouton Rothschild, speaks eloquently of this dramatic narrative.
A Vintage Sculpted by Nature's Extremes
The year 2003 was indelibly marked by scorching heatwaves across Europe, significantly impacting vineyards. Resultingly, the wines of this year carry the intense signature of this warmth. Yet, it is a testament to the skilled viticulture and winemaking at Château Mouton Rothschild that Le Petit Mouton not only survived but thrived under these testing conditions. An exceptional exercise in balance and finesse amidst nature's extremities.
In a sip, one discovers a blend that overstated richness has not compromised – indeed a tapestry of dark fruits interwoven with nuanced hints of cacao and the slightest touch of savory leather. Age has introduced a remarkable complexity to the palate, a composition only possible with time's patience and the storied terroir of Pauillac.
An Investment in Excellence
For connoisseurs and investors alike, the 2003 Le Petit Mouton is a compelling acquisition. It remains an approachable entry to the prestigious lineage of Château Mouton Rothschild wines while encapsulating a unique chapter in Bordeaux's history. The wine reveals how intricately entwined are vintner artistry and nature's will. This symbiosis offers a captivating study on resilience and adaptability – valuable attributes for any fine wine portfolio.
As Le Petit Mouton matures gracefully, its evolution is fascinating to witness; it has escaped youthful exuberance and settled into composed elegance. A wine thus morphed is suitable for long-term investment, promising gradual unfolding wonders to those who would invest in its story. Indeed, for those entranced by the alchemy of time's effects on wine, 2003 Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton Rothschild presents a narrative thread still weaving its historical tapestry through each savoured glass.
Market price (USD)
$3,620.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
424.29
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Le Petit Mouton has an animally, slightly gamey bouquet with touches of sage and white fennel. It is nicely defined but could do with more vigour. The palate is medium-bodied with a slight medicinal entry. This feels quite forward and fleshy. It lacks a little backbone and there is a touch of over-ripeness on the "Tuscan-like" finish. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013