In his 1981 autobiography Vivre la Vigne, Baron Philippe de Rothschild wondered if anyone would celebrate the centenary of his arrival at Château Mouton Rothschild. With the release of the 2022 vintage, that question has been answered with a resounding yes. The label, illustrated by renowned French artist Gérard Garouste, is a heartfelt tribute to the man who transformed the estate into the icon it is today.
The label, titled Hommage au Baron Philippe, tells the story of Château Mouton Rothschild and the visionary behind it. Gérard Garouste drew inspiration from conversations with Julien de Beaumarchais de Rothschild and vintage photographs of Baron Philippe.
The design blends key elements of the estate—the front wall, the symbolic ram, and a striking portrait of the Baron. The ram, representing Baron Philippe’s Aries star sign and the vitality of Mouton Rothschild, weaves seamlessly into the vine, capturing the very heart of winemaking.
“Baron Philippe’s elegance, work ethic, and playful character really resonated with me as an artist,” Garouste shared. “The ram, with its mythological significance, and the estate’s iconic wall became central to my tribute.”
Julien de Beaumarchais de Rothschild described the label as “a story of transformation,” combining symbols of the estate and its founder into a timeless piece of art.
The Artist Behind the Label
Born in 1946, Gérard Garouste has spent decades captivating audiences with his thought-provoking work inspired by Western culture, mythology, and literature. A graduate of the Paris School of Fine Arts, his creations are displayed in prestigious collections like the Centre Pompidou and the Museum of Modern Art Ludwig Foundation in Vienna. Known for his intricate blend of fantastical imagery and allegorical depth, Garouste’s work reflects his passion for exploring origins, time, and storytelling.
Beyond painting, Garouste founded La Source Garouste in 1991, a non-profit organisation that supports vulnerable young people through creative projects. His contributions to the art world earned him a place in the Paris Academy of Fine Arts in 2017 and the title of Commander of the National Order of Merit in 2019.
To honour Baron Philippe’s sailing achievements and mark the 2022 vintage, Château Mouton Rothschild is teaming up with Christie’s for a special online auction. The proceeds will benefit Sauveteurs en Mer (SNSM), France’s sea rescue service, helping fund vital communication equipment for their Port-Médoc station. The auction includes a range of Château Mouton Rothschild 2022 wines, from standard bottles to the rare Nebuchadnezzar, as well as unique experiences like a private estate tour and VIP access to a SailGP event.
Baron Philippe’s idea of blending wine and art has left a lasting legacy. Since 1945, Château Mouton Rothschild labels have featured original artwork from some of the greatest names in art history, including Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol. Each vintage contributes to the estate’s Paintings for the Labels collection, a celebration of tradition and creativity.
Located in Pauillac, Médoc, Château Mouton Rothschild spans 82 hectares of exceptional terroir, producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Guided by meticulous craftsmanship and respect for tradition, the estate has flourished under the care of Baron Philippe and his family. Today, Julien, Camille, and Philippe Sereys de Rothschild carry forward the family’s commitment to excellence, honouring their motto: “Live for the vine.”
With the release of its 2022 vintage, Château Mouton Rothschild not only celebrates a century of innovation but also honours the enduring legacy of Baron Philippe. The label is more than just a work of art—it’s a symbol of excellence, creativity, and tradition. As wine and art come together, this latest vintage is a toast to the past and an inspiration for what lies ahead.
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