CRITIC REVIEWS
Jane Anson
Parkers first ever 100 point wine (along with Petrus 1982), this at first seemed to be softer through the mid palate than the other First Growths in the lineup, but once it opened up, the autumnal blackberry and bilberry fruits came tumbling into place, as did charred sandalwood, cigar box, campfire smoke, and waves of crushed rose petal aromatics. Showing full tertiary welcome, with melted tannins, and the gently finessed pleasures of fully mature Pauillac. I wouldnt count out the ability of this vintage to remain at this point for another few decades. The Mouton label in 1982 was painted by artist and film director John Huston to celebrate Baron Philippe de Rothschilds 60th harvest at the Pauillac First Growth (and the 10th vintage since its promotion to First Growth status). Harvest September 15-24, 100% new oak.
Robert M. Parker, Jr.
This wine remains one of the legends of Bordeaux. It has thrown off the backward, youthful style that existed during its first 25 years of life, and over the last 4-5 years has developed such secondary nuances as cedar and spice box. The creme de cassis, underlying floral note, full-bodied power, extraordinary purity, multilayered texture, and finish of over a minute are a showcase for what this Chateau accomplished in 1982. The wine is still amazingly youthful, vibrant, and pure. It appears capable of remaining fruity and vibrant in 2082! Thank God it is beginning to budge, as I would like to drink most of my supply before I kick the bucket. This is a great, still youthful wine, and, on occasion, one does understand the hierarchy of Bordeaux chateaux when you see the complexity and brilliance of this first-growth. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2050+ Release price: ($350.00/case)