2018 Rauzan Segla
Buying options
Tasting notes
Luscious aromatics of ripe figs, blackberry puree, red liqourice, the tannins are supple and even a little melted at five years old, although there are plenty of them, and they are still fully in control. The floral waves of violet, roses and raspberry leaf that so often accompany Rauzan Ségla are present even in this hot year, with low yields of 32hl/h after mildew early in the season (any impacted vines were harvested, sorted and vinified separately). 65% new oak, 32hl/h yield, 3.8ph. Nicolas Audbert director, Eric Boissenot consultant.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Smudgy rim. High toned. A little more moderate than some top 2018s. Correct but quite low key. No shortage of tannin; a slight shortage of drama – which may be no bad thing? Some slight green notes but the weight of wine makes up for them. (JR)
Reminding me of the 2016, the 2018 Château Rauzan-Segla reveals this beautifully fresh, complex bouquet that still has serious richness and depth. Based on 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, raised in 65% new barrels, it offers a dense purple hue to go with gorgeous notes of blackcurrants, spring flowers, cigar wrapper, and sandalwood. A quintessential Margaux with its spicy, complex, floral character, it's full-bodied and has a supple, elegant texture, no hard edges, a solid spine of acidity, and a great, great finish. This is a brilliant, heavenly 2018 to enjoy over the coming 30 years or more.
56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot. Dark, dense garnet. Salty, brisk, appetising nose. Very round and fruity and actually almost drinkable already! Even though there is no shortage of ripe tannin. Lots of work on tannin management? Really luscious without being sweet. Long and correct. Superb modern bordeaux. Great stuff! (JR)
About the producer
The Chanel group purchased Margaux Second Growth Ch. Rauzan-Ségla in 1994. Under the iconic fashion house’s ownership and – since 2014 – the guidance of winemaker Nicolas Audebert, the estate has seen significant investment and rapidly become one of Bordeaux’s most desirable.