1950 Mouton Rothschild

The 1950 Mouton-Rothschild comes from a halcyon era for the Fir…, sorry, Second Growth when Baron Philippe was pulling out all the stops in what must have seemed like a futile quest for promotion. It is a rather forgotten vintage, more known on the Right Bank. This was a welcome surprise. In fact, I mistook it for a nobler vintage. Decayed red fruit on the nose, antique bureau, pencil shavings and cedar unfurl gradually, fully mature yet still vital. The palate might be considered lightweight yet retains a fine-boned structure and light grip. It shows beguiling balance with a classically styled and regal finish. All it lacks is heft and density. While I would not entertain this vintage much longer, it is not drying out and deserves applause.