Château Rauzan-Ségla 2018

Winery Background and History

Château Rauzan-Ségla, established in 1661 by Pierre de Rauzan, is a distinguished estate in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Over the centuries, it has garnered acclaim 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 modernizing the vineyards 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 2018 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 2018 growing season was marked by a wet spring, which increased the risk of mildew, followed by a hot and dry summer, leading to reduced yields but exceptional grape concentration.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2018 Château Rauzan-Ségla is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvesting commenced on September 12th and concluded on October 11th, 2018. 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, 65% of which were new, for an aging period of approximately 18 months. This regimen imparted complexity and structure to the wine, while preserving the purity of the fruit.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2018 vintage has an alcohol content of 14%. 

Tasting Notes

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Château Rauzan-Ségla offers powerful, energetic scents of crushed black cherries, blackcurrant cordial, and mulberries, plus suggestions of violets, star anise, chocolate mint, and crushed rocks with a touch of tobacco leaf. The medium to full-bodied palate is jam-packed with taut, muscular black fruit layers, supported by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing with fantastic length and loads of earthy sparks. 

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 20-30 years. It is suitable for consumption now but will continue to evolve, gaining additional nuances with extended cellaring.

Scores

• James Suckling: 99/100

• Jeb Dunnuck: 99/100

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 98+/100

• Decanter: 97/100

• Wine Enthusiast: 97/100

• Wine Spectator: 96/100