Château Mouton Rothschild

History

Château Mouton Rothschild, originally known as Château Brane-Mouton, was renamed by Nathaniel de Rothschild in 1853. The estate's history began in 1718 when Nicolas-Alexandre de Ségur acquired it, along with Château Calon-Ségur. After Ségur's death in 1755, his estate was divided among his daughters. In 1853, Nathaniel de Rothschild purchased Brane Mouton, revitalizing the property despite its decline in the 1840s.

Initially classified as a Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Mouton Rothschild was excluded from First Growth status, an injustice that Baron Philippe de Rothschild sought to rectify. He took control of the estate in 1922 at the age of 20 and implemented revolutionary changes, including estate-bottling, which ensured quality control and shifted power from Bordeaux middlemen. This innovation required the construction of the Grand Chai in 1926.

Baron Philippe also introduced artist-designed labels starting with the 1945 vintage, a tradition that continues to this day. In 1973, after decades of lobbying, Mouton Rothschild was elevated to First Growth status, prompting a change in its motto. The estate has remained in the Rothschild family since its purchase, with significant contributions from Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, who introduced white wine production and oversaw a winery renovation. Her children continue to manage the estate, maintaining its legacy as a premier Bordeaux producer.

Terroir

Château Mouton Rothschild is situated in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France, and its terroir is characterized by exceptional gravel outcrops resting on a marl-limestone soil. The name "Mouton" originates from the ancient French word for a mound of earth, reflecting the estate's unique terroir. The gravel soils provide excellent drainage, which is crucial for the vineyard's health and wine quality. This terroir, combined with the estate's signature Cabernet Sauvignon (81% of the vineyard plantings), contributes to the distinctive style and complexity of Mouton Rothschild's wines.

The gravel soils, rich in iron, play a significant role in the wine's development. The high porosity and permeability of these soils allow for optimal water retention and drainage, ensuring that the vines receive the necessary moisture while preventing waterlogged conditions. This balanced water property is essential for the health and growth of the vines, ultimately influencing the flavor profile and structure of the wine.