Château Rauzan-Ségla 2014

Winery Background and History

Château Rauzan-Ségla, located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, was established in 1661 by Pierre de Rauzan. Over the centuries, it gained prominence for producing wines of exceptional quality, leading to its classification as a Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. In 1994, the estate was acquired by the Wertheimer family, owners of the Chanel fashion house, who invested significantly in vineyard management and winemaking facilities. Today, Château Rauzan-Ségla is renowned for crafting elegant and refined wines that exemplify the Margaux terroir.

Producer and Winemaker

As of the 2014 vintage, the estate was under the management of Nicolas Audebert, who joined as managing director and winemaker in 2014. With a background in oenology and experience in both Bordeaux and international wine regions, Audebert brought a fresh perspective to the estate, focusing on precision viticulture and winemaking techniques to enhance the expression of the terroir.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Rauzan-Ségla span approximately 70 hectares, situated on the deep gravel soils characteristic of the Margaux appellation. These well-draining soils are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, allowing the vines to develop deep root systems and access essential nutrients. The proximity to the Gironde estuary provides a moderating influence on the climate, reducing temperature extremes and promoting a long, even ripening period. The 2014 growing season was marked by a warm and dry summer, followed by a cooler and wetter September, which required careful vineyard management to ensure optimal grape maturity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2014 Château Rauzan-Ségla is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvesting commenced on September 22nd and concluded on October 16th, 2014. The grapes were handpicked and underwent rigorous sorting to ensure only the highest quality fruit was utilized. Fermentation occurred in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise management of fermentation kinetics. Post-fermentation, the wine was transferred to French oak barrels, 60% of which were new, for an aging period of 18 months. This regimen imparted complexity and structure to the wine, while preserving the purity of the fruit.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2014 vintage has an alcohol content of 13.5%.

Tasting Notes

The 2014 Château Rauzan-Ségla presents a deep dark purple color. The nose reveals complex red and black fruits combined with subtle mineral and spiced notes. On the palate, it is pure and velvety with impressive length, offering flavors of ripe blueberry and cassis fruit along with subtle vanilla cream, cedarwood, scorched earth, and spice. The wine is medium to full-bodied, beautifully textured, and seamless, with ripe tannins promising excellent longevity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs elegantly with roasted lamb, duck confit, and aged cheeses. The wine’s acidity and tannic structure complement the richness of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for approximately 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F).

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under proper conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with appropriate humidity—this wine has the potential to develop further complexity over the next 15-20 years. It is suitable for consumption now but will continue to evolve, gaining additional nuances with extended cellaring.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 95/100

• Vinous: 94+/100

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 93/100

• James Suckling: 94/100