Awards & Ratings
19/20 – La Revue du Vin de France
17.5/20 – Jancis Robinson
97 pts – Robert Parker Wine Advocate
95 pts – Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
95 pts – Jeannie Cho Lee MW
94 pts – Gismondi on Wine
About This Wine
A refined vintage from Château Mouton Rothschild, 1er Grand Cru Classé, Pauillac, the 1998 combines power and precision from a challenging yet rewarding year.
Harvested between 28 September and 6 October, the blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc reflects the estate’s mastery in balancing richness, structure, and elegance.
The 1998 label was created by Rufino Tamayo, the celebrated Mexican artist, whose work “Brindis” evokes a luminous toast beneath the sun — a tribute to life, colour, and passion.
Tasting Notes
Deep purple-red colour with youthful brightness.
The nose opens with aromas of black fruit, cassis, leather, and graphite, evolving into notes of mocha, spice, and tobacco.
On the palate, it is full-bodied, concentrated, and silky, displaying layers of ripe plum, blackberry, and cedar.
Fine-grained tannins lead to a long, poised finish marked by freshness and mineral depth.
A classic Mouton that marries opulence with finesse.
Climatic Conditions
A vintage of contrasts:
Early budding and a hot, dry summer encouraged ripening, while rain in September and October demanded meticulous vineyard and cellar selection.
Despite these challenges, the resulting fruit offered exceptional aromatic intensity and structure, producing wines of great longevity.
Vinification & Technical Data
Appellation: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 1er Grand Cru Classé
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 86%, Merlot 12%, Cabernet Franc 2%
Harvest: 28 September – 6 October 1998
Alcohol: 12.5% vol
Sweetness: Dry
Maturation: French oak barrels
Winemaker: Patrick Léon
Ownership: Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
Closure: Cork
Art & Legacy
Label Artist: Rufino Tamayo (1899–1991)
A master of Mexican modernism, Tamayo’s art fuses pre-Columbian heritage with modern expressionism.
His posthumous design for the 1998 vintage, “Brindis”, depicts a toast beneath a radiant sun — transforming a simple gesture into a universal celebration of vitality and emotion.
Food Pairing
Perfect with ribeye steak, roast lamb, or duck breast with Béarnaise sauce.
Pairs beautifully with earthy dishes like mushroom risotto or truffle-infused beef.
