Le Petit Mouton de Rothschild 2021

Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Since Mouton-Rothschild itself this year derives exclusively from the two plateaus that always make up the core of the blend, the 2021 Le Petit Mouton benefits from the inclusion of parcels that often make it into the grand vin. Exhibiting aromas of crème de cassis, mint, cigar wrapper, violets and espresso roast, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with a rich core of fruit, powdery tannins, succulent acids and a persistent finish. Characterful and beautifully made, I wonder if I'm being a little severe with my score?

James Suckling

A well-framed Petit Mouton with a tight core of black fruit and bitter-chocolate and graphite notes. Firm, fine-tannin structure. Mineral and classic with a classy finish. Punchy. 77% cabernet sauvignon, 19.5% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 0.5% petit verdot.

VertdeVin

The nose is elegant, mineral/graphite, complete and shows a nice definition of the fruit, some airiness, depth, fine/racy grain. There are notes of bright blackcurrant, lily and more lightly blueberry combined with hints of crushed redcurrant, strawberry as well as hints of star anise, a discreet hint of sediment and liquorice. The palate is nicely conducted, fresh, precise and demonstrates straightness, thoroughness, a little stretch/linearity, minerality, energy and control. On the palate this wine expresses cherry/juicy, bright blackcurrant and more lightly violet notes combined with hints of pulpy violet plum as well as hints of liquorice, fresh flowers, delicate hints of liquorice stick, cardamom, a subtle hint of cocoa (in the background) and cherry brightness. The tannins are precise and mellow. A lovely finish/persistence.

Adrian van Velsen - vvWine.ch

Falstaff

Deep dark ruby with purple reflections on the pale watery rim. Delicate floral scent with hints of plums and black cherries, subtle savoury note. Medium body, elegant blackberry fruit is well integrated, balanced, savoury tannins. More marked by Cabernet than usual, mineral finish with a little nougat on the back palate.