Mouton Rothschild 2001

The 2001 Mouton Rothschild is a blend of 86 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 12 percent Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc produced from 28 hectoliters per hectare of tiny yields (66 percent of the production made it into the wine). Between October 8 and 10, the full Cabernet Sauvignon crop was harvested. While the 2001 lacks the charm and delicacy of the 1999, as well as the huge strength and body of the nearly flawless 2000, it does have forward, evolved aromas of espresso, creme de cassis, Asian spice, licorice, and toasty oak. The astringent finish is the product of low acid and strong tannin. To justify a 93 or above, it will need to be fleshed out. It is currently dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. Extra fat should be avoided.