An Ageless Mouton-Rothschild

Château Mouton-Rothschild 1945 (1 bottle)

Pauillac, Bordeaux

"A consistent 100-point wine (only because my point scale stops at that number), the 1945 Mouton-Rothschild is truly one of the immortal wines of the century."

Perhaps there is no higher praise than these words of Robert Parker, who goes on to write, "This wine is easily identifiable due to its remarkably exotic, over-ripe, sweet nose of black fruits, coffee, tobacco, mocha, and Asian spices." (Bordeaux Book, Third Edition)

Château Mouton-Rothschild 1945 is without a doubt one of the most celebrated wines of the 20th century, if not all time. Late frosts reduced the crop, and the remaining grapes were harvested under ideal conditions, attaining maximum ripeness. All this resulted in a wine that's concentrated, long-lived, and unforgettable. To commemorate the liberation of the vineyards from the German army, Baron Philippe commissioned an artist to create a special strip label for each bottle which reads "Année de la Victoire." The tradition of artist labels continues today, with a special label designed by a different artist each year.

This bottle was thoughtfully donated by Lili Gaubin from the wine collection of her late mother and longtime Women's Board member, Catherine Graham, in honor of Shirley Welsh Ryan, for her extraordinary vision in creating the Wine Auction thirty years ago. This bottle was presented to the Grahams as a wedding gift by Mrs. Graham's family in France; therefore, the bottle does not bear a U.S. import strip label. The overall condition is exemplary: a sound label in excellent condition, a level at the very top of the shoulder, and remarkably deep color.

It is certainly a beautiful tribute to both Mrs. Ryan's vision and to Mrs. Graham's legacy.

Generously contributed by Lili Gaubin from the collection of her late mother, Catherine Graham, in honor of Shirley Welsh Ryan

Ready to place a bid? Pre-bids can be made here. Pre-bidding for Live Lots will close at 5:00 p.m. CST on Friday, April 13.

Interested in bidding by phone during the Live Auction? Please call 312.827.5682 to make arrangements.