(1982 Vintage) On the surface, Mouton is often less complicated than the other firsts. Its glamorous oak scent and flashy cassis concentration are easily matched by several ambitious second-growth Pauillacs. The greatness of Mouton lies deeper, and it shows most prominently in a Cabernet vintage like rsquo;96. The vines stand in a deep sea of small stones, a gravel plateau as difficult to walk upon as a sand dune. Cabernet loves these stones and grows grapes that come about as close to the essential flavor of the variety as seems possible. Mouton is a pure, perfectly articulates Cabernet as a Shaker chair is a pure, essential and perfect chair.

(1982 Vintage) Rating: 92(+?) - As reviewed by International Wine Cellar in Issue 84, May/June 1999. Bright deep ruby. Vinous, complex aromas of cassis, roasted plum, spice, licorice, roast coffee, game and grilled bread. Voluminous yet currently rather inexpressive in the mouth; this has a depth and texture not shown in either the '97 or '98. Distinct notes of torrefaction in the mouth. Finishes very long, with well-buffered, ripe tannins.

(2006 Vintage) Rating: 96-100 - As reviewed by Robert Parker

(2006 Vintage) Rating: 95-100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 4/07

(2006 Vintage) Rating: 91/100 - As reviewed by International Wine Cellar