1970 - Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac

A perfect example of the magic of First Growths, even when they were Second Growths at the time, as this vintage was three years before Mouton was promoted. I bought this wine at auction for around €200, and it was a gamble as to its condition as the label was pretty much non-existent, but the risk more than paid off. Shared with dear friends at one of my favourite restaurants in Bordeaux (Ressources), this was mouthwatering, moreish, delicate but never wavering, fine tannins, brambled fruit, a shot of incense, liqourice, graphite, fully in its drinking window but not yet flagging. Wonderful.

Bright red with an amber rim. Captivating nose of dark plum, blackcurrant, oak, coffee, cocoa and flowers. Juicy, sweet and suave on entry, then brightly focused in its red fruit and black flavors complicated by cedar and citrus. Finishes with flinty, saline nuances and very suave tannins. This outstanding wine is perfectly balanced and light on its feet, still very young and capable of a very long life. It might disappoint those looking for a blockbuster, but I love its overall sense of refinement. An essence of claret.