Owner: Rothschild Family
Region: Pauillac, Médoc, Bordeaux, France
Classification: Premier Grand Cru Classé (since 1973)
Vineyard Area: 82 hectares (approx. 192.7 acres of red grapes, 9.8 acres of white)
Average Vine Age: 45 years
Soil Type: Gravel and limestone
Harvest Method: Hand-picked
Annual Production: Around 300,000 bottles
Red Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 77%, Merlot 11%, Cabernet Franc 10%, Petit Verdot 2%
White Grape Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc 51%, Sémillon 47%, Muscadelle 2%
Winery Overview
Located in Pauillac, in the heart of Bordeaux’s Médoc region, Château Mouton Rothschild is one of the world’s most celebrated First Growth estates. Officially elevated to Premier Grand Cru Classé status in 1973, it remains the only château ever promoted in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification — a testament to its remarkable quality and enduring innovation.
History
The estate’s origins trace back to the 14th century, when the land was known as “Motte” — the root of the name “Mouton.” It became part of the powerful seigneurial holdings of Pauillac long before vines were planted. By 1718, the vineyard came under the control of Nicolas-Alexandre de Ségur, known as the “Prince of Vines,” who also owned Lafite, Latour, and Calon-Ségur. In 1720, Joseph de Brane purchased the property, naming it “Brane-Mouton.” His family developed the vineyard’s reputation for excellence and introduced Cabernet Sauvignon to Médoc, laying the foundation for greatness.
In 1853, the estate was acquired by Baron Nathaniel de Rothschild, who renamed it Château Mouton Rothschild. Despite its superb wines, Mouton was only classified as a Second Growth in 1855 — an omission that spurred the family’s relentless pursuit of recognition. It would take over a century of dedication, innovation, and excellence to change that fate.
Rise to Global Fame
In 1922, Baron Philippe de Rothschild took the helm at just 20 years old. A true visionary, he revolutionized Bordeaux by introducing estate bottling in 1924, ensuring that every bottle reflected the château’s uncompromising quality. He modernized the winery, expanded barrel capacity, and transformed Mouton into one of the most technologically advanced estates of its time. During World War II, he was imprisoned by the Vichy regime, but after the war, he reclaimed Mouton and reimagined it with bold artistic flair.
To celebrate France’s liberation in 1945, Baron Philippe introduced a new wine label designed by artist Philippe Jullian — featuring a “V” for victory. Since then, each vintage of Mouton Rothschild has been adorned with original artwork from world-renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhol, and Joan Miró. This marriage of fine art and fine wine became the hallmark of Mouton’s identity, elevating it beyond viticulture into the realm of cultural legacy.
Elevation to First Growth
After decades of tireless advocacy, Mouton’s persistence was rewarded in 1973 when it was finally promoted to Premier Grand Cru Classé. Baron Philippe’s triumph inspired the estate’s new motto: “Premier je suis, Second je fus, Mouton ne change” — “I am first, I was second, Mouton does not change.” It remains the only time in Bordeaux history that the 1855 classification was ever altered.
The Modern Era
After Baron Philippe’s passing in 1988, his daughter Baronne Philippine de Rothschild took over management, guiding the estate into the modern age while honoring her father’s artistic and winemaking vision. She expanded international partnerships, most notably founding Opus One in Napa Valley with Robert Mondavi and co-establishing Almaviva in Chile with Concha y Toro, producing world-class wines that reflect the Mouton spirit across continents.
Vineyards and Winemaking
Mouton’s 82-hectare vineyard lies on the gravelly slopes of Pauillac, an area ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines, averaging 45 years of age, are densely planted (8,500 vines per hectare) and meticulously hand-harvested. Fermentation takes place in oak vats — a rare practice among Bordeaux estates — with maturation in new French oak barrels for 18 to 22 months. The resulting wines are structured, powerful, and complex, with layers of cassis, graphite, cedar, and exotic spice, capable of aging gracefully for decades.
Signature Wines
- Grand Vin de Château Mouton Rothschild – The flagship wine, a benchmark of Pauillac elegance and power.
- Le Petit Mouton de Mouton Rothschild – The second wine, vibrant and expressive, showcasing Mouton’s signature style in a youthful form.
- Aile d’Argent – The estate’s white wine, crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc with Sémillon and Muscadelle, offering floral and mineral finesse.
Contact Information
Address: 33250 Pauillac, France
Phone: +33 5 56 73 21 29
Website: www.chateau-mouton-rothschild.com
Conclusion
Château Mouton Rothschild stands as a symbol of passion, perseverance, and artistic excellence. From its storied history and pioneering innovations to its breathtaking wines and legendary labels, Mouton remains not just a wine — but an enduring masterpiece.
* Photo Courtesy of chateau-mouton-rothschild.com