Chateau Rauzan-Segla, a notable Second Growth wine estate in the esteemed Margaux appellation, has stood as a testament to French winemaking prowess since the 18th century. A nod to its quality comes from historical records indicating Thomas Jefferson's admiration and purchase of their wines during his 1787 visit to Bordeaux.
The Wertheimer brothers, owners of the fashion empire Chanel, acquired the property in 1994 and promptly commenced an exhaustive renovation. Celebrated architect Peter Marino spearheaded the chateau's restoration in 1996. The transformation included the introduction of smaller vats, facilitating more meticulous vinification and corresponding with the vineyard's parcels. This period also saw the resurrection of Petit Verdot in the vineyard, a grape variety historically grown on the estate but previously discarded.
A significant player in the modernization and upliftment of the estate was John Kolasa, the manager from the late 20th century to 2014, under whose stewardship harvesting by machine was discontinued, vine density was increased, a new drainage system was installed, and the wine Segla was introduced in 1995. Nicolas Audebert, formerly of Cheval des Andes in Mendoza, Argentina, succeeded Kolasa in 2014.
Chateau Rauzan Segla's vineyard, spanning 74 hectares, is now predominantly planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (62%), followed by Merlot (36%), and smaller portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (each at 1%). The return of Petit Verdot and increased focus on Cabernet Sauvignon are credited with significantly improving the wines' quality post-2009. The vineyard's soils are a blend of gravel and clay, and the vines' age averages around 35 years. A 2008 acquisition from Chateau de La Bourgade expanded the vineyard, and by 2019, the entire vineyard adopted organic farming, obtaining official organic certification in 2023.
The vinification process at Chateau Rauzan Segla employs 35 temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks, with sizes varying from 41 to 220 hectoliters, allowing for separate vinification of each parcel. The wines are then aged in 50% to 60% new French oak barrels for 18 to 20 months.
The Grand Vin, Chateau Rauzan-Segla, is a deeply hued, complex blend dominated by Cabernet. Its nose unveils intense aromas of ripe black fruits, like Morello cherries, interlaced with floral notes of iris and the spicy touch of cigar box. With sufficient aging, the wine's tannins soften to a velvety smoothness, enhancing the sophisticated palate. Its lingering finish resonates, encapsulating the essence of an endlessly elegant Margaux.
In its finest vintages, Chateau Rauzan-Segla boasts an incredible depth of flavor and impressive length on the finish, making it an unforgettable tasting experience. This wine pairs with classic meat dishes, wild game, and organ meats. Imagine savoring it alongside a succulent roasted wood pigeon served with root vegetables or tender veal kidneys sautéed in rich red wine and mustard sauce. This wine's elegance and complex structure can truly elevate these culinary delights to a gourmet experience.
Segla, the estate's second wine, is not released as a future but rather sold once bottled. It is aged in around 25% new French oak, embodying a more approachable and youthful charm. The annual production of both Chateau Rauzan Segla and Segla is between 10,000 and 12,000 cases.
The heritage, terroir, and meticulous winemaking practices employed at Chateau Rauzan-Segla give birth to wines that beautifully exemplify the essence of the Margaux appellation. Each bottle from this estate promises a journey of sensory delight, showcasing the timeless elegance and the intriguing complexity that are the hallmarks of Bordeaux's Left Bank.