A very deep, almost black colour with brilliant highlights. The nose is racy and complex, offering a wide range of aromas. Scents of blueberry, blackcurrant and light tobacco mingle with subtle aromas of cedar and spices. The palate immediately reveals all its density and finesse. The ripe fruit is very present and blends perfectly with the noble, well-coated tannins, revealing remarkable structure and balance. The finish is opulent and long. The long, opulent finish confirms the outstanding success of this Mouton Rothschild, for which everything possible has been done to enable it to fully express the exceptional qualities of the 2009 vintage. Nature proved to be extremely kind to this wine. Nature was extremely generous in 2009, particularly favourable to the vegetative cycle of the vines and the ripening of the grapes. The winter was a little colder than the previous year. Winter was a little colder than usual, but the region enjoyed plenty of sunshine until March, with 204 extra hours of sunshine. Spring saw a very wet April and an often stormy May. From mid-June onwards, summer set in, with a remarkable amount of sunshine and little rainfall. These very fine conditions, combined with a high level of water stress barely offset by some light rainfall, enabled the grapes to reach full ripeness at the end of a slow process. September also enjoyed ideal weather, with alternating cool nights and warm days. This weather was particularly favourable for the concentration of aromas and the accumulation of anthocyanins, and meant that the vineyard was in perfect condition right up to harvest time. Harvesting began on 23 September for the Merlot and finished on 6 October for the Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are extremely healthy, very sweet, colourful and fruity, with exceptional potential for quality. 2009 will surely go down as a vintage on a par with the greatest success stories.