96 points Wine Spectator:

January 1998

This classic wine is only showing a portion of what it's got to offer, but it's excellent even so. Inky in color, with masses of berry, violet, mint, mineral and cherry character, and full in body, with tons of velvety tannins and a moderate finish. Needs time to open. Best after 2004.

95 points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

February 1998

Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.