Wines Pauillac Château Mouton Rothschild - 2005

Viniou Reviews

Château Mouton Rothschild 2005 stands as a luminous example of Pauillac’s excellence and grandeur in a legendary vintage. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this Premier Cru embodies the classic Left Bank blend. The remarkable 2005 vintage brought optimal ripeness and concentration, a product of a warm but balanced growing season. The deep gravel soils of the Mouton Rothschild vineyard provide outstanding drainage, encouraging the roots to dig deep and imparting a signature minerality to the wine. Maturation takes place in new French oak barrels, lending subtle spice, refined tannins, and exceptional elegance to the final cuvée.

Pauillac, located at the heart of the Médoc on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is synonymous with power, longevity, and finesse in Bordeaux. The combination of gravelly soils, the proximity of the river that moderates temperatures, and the region’s maritime climate all contribute to the unique quality of wines produced here. The history of Château Mouton Rothschild is one of innovation and ambition, having gained Premier Cru status in 1973—an unprecedented elevation in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. The estate is also celebrated for its tradition of commissioning contemporary artists to design each vintage’s label.

To best complement the structure, depth, and complexity of Mouton Rothschild 2005, pair it with richly flavoured dishes such as slow-roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary, entrecôte à la Bordelaise, or game birds such as pheasant in a red wine reduction. Local Pauillac lamb, celebrated for its tenderness and subtle flavour, is the quintessential pairing. Mature hard cheeses like Comté or aged mimolette will also flatter the wine’s nuanced aromas.

For the optimal tasting experience, decant for at least two hours to allow its bouquet of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco and graphite to unfurl. Serve at 16-18°C. This wine is approaching its plateau of maturity but promises further evolution with cellaring, offering layers of complexity with each passing year.