Brimming with balance and energy, this is Mouton in a more classical, structured mood—with bright acidity and polished tannins anchoring the wine’s graceful evolution. A fresh, poised powerhouse that continues to impress critics and collectors alike.

Decanter | D 96
Published: Feb 9, 2021
Drink: 2021-2040

Starting to really come into its own, this is packed full of savoury blackberry, redcurrant and blueberry fruit with layers of liquorice, black chocolate, grilled cedar and a gentle lick of salinity through the finish. Excellent quality, and now starting to open - it was a baby at the 10 years on tasting but has inched open over the past three years. Harvest from October 2-15, with relatively low yields of 34hl/ha.

The Wine Advocate | RP 95
Published: Jan 31, 2017
Drink: 2021-2045

Tasted at the Mouton-Rothschild vertical in London, the 2008 Mouton Rothschild has always been in the shadow of the ensuing couple of vintages, but I was not the only person at this tasting that commented upon the class in show here. It replicated previous showings: cedar and graphite present and correct, though accompanied by something a little more exotic - eucalyptus maybe? The palate is beautifully balanced, very detailed and extremely fresh. This conveys so much energy and animation before reverting towards a more classic and structured, pencil lead finish. Those in the know will stash up on the 2008 Mouton Rothschild because it is destined to turn into one of the "dark horses" of the decade. Tasted May 2016.

James Suckling | JS 94
Published: Nov 17, 2015

Aromas of roasted fruit plus hints of grilled meat and chocolate. Full body, firm and chewy tannins and bright acidity. Tangy and lively. Needs time still to come together to soften the tannins. A little hard. Better in 2018.

Jancis Robinson | JR 17.5
Published: Mar 2, 2018
Drink: 2017-2038

Tasted blind. Particularly dark crimson. Quite dramatic. Well balanced but a bit cool and lacking intensity – but it’s long and well balanced. I want to drink this! Very fresh. 

Chateau-mouton-rothschild.com

Illustration of the label - Xu Lei (1963)

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Natural Cork
Vintage: 2008
Oak: French oak barrels, predominantly new oak
Varietals: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot
Vineyard: Château Mouton Rothschild estate, Pauillac, planted on deep Garonne gravel soils
Harvest: 2–15 October 2008
Vinification: Traditional fermentation in oak vats, with meticulous grape selection and approximately 20–25 days of maceration
Ageing: Approximately 18–22 months in French oak barrels
Winemaker: Philippe Dhalluin
Region: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 1st Grand Cru Classé 1855
Label Artist: Xu Lei

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: Decant for approximately 1–2 hours before serving; taste periodically as the wine opens
Food Pairing: Roast beef, lamb, venison, duck, steak, braised beef, mushrooms, truffle and mature hard cheeses