Rauzan-Segla: 2000, 2003, 2005, 2009

Chateau Rauzan-Segla, the second growth Bordeaux in the appellation of Margaux, is a shinning example of the new wave of passionate winemaking in France’s premier wine region. The estate is the property of the same family who own the illustrator fashion house of Chanel. And it has spared no expense to make the best wines possible – primarily through an extensive renovation of the vineyards, as well as severe selection of the best wines each vintage.

When the video was shot earlier this year with president of the estate John Kolasa, the 2009 had not been in bottle yet. But I recently tasted it from bottle in Hong Kong and scored it 97 points. It’s a great Rauzan. We will see in the end if the 2009 is better than the 2005: 97 points. The day of the video, I thought the 2003 was slightly better than in the past: 93 points. And the 2000 remains a consistent 93 points.

Rauzan-Segla makes wines with a firm and toned elegance. They are feminine in style, like so many people say wines of the Margaux appellation show. But there’s an impressive structure as well. The renaissance for great quality at the estate began in the 2000s and continues.