2023 Château Rauzan-Ségla

Winery Château Rauzan-Ségla

Château Rauzan-Ségla is a Second Growth from Margaux and has been considered one of the appellation's benchmarks for decades. Under Chanel's ownership, the estate has focused strongly on refinement in vineyard management and winemaking, while preserving classic Margaux elegance. The style is characterized by purity, finesse, and an increasingly clear focus on terroir expression and aging potential.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

The Rauzan-Ségla vineyards are located in the heart of the Margaux region on deep, gravelly soils with excellent drainage. These soils produce aromatic precision and refined tannins. The 2023 vintage combined ripeness with freshness, resulting in wines with concentration, energy, and a distinctly classic profile.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The plots of Château Rauzan-Ségla are managed and harvested separately. In 2023, the blend consisted of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13.5% Merlot, and 1.5% Petit Verdot. The high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, one of the highest percentages ever at this château, underscores the focus on structure, freshness, and aging potential. Merlot contributes texture and roundness, while Petit Verdot adds extra spice and depth.

Harvest, vinification and maturation

The grapes were carefully harvested at optimal ripeness and vinified according to the plot. Vinification focuses on controlled extraction to preserve purity and balance. Maturation in oak barrels enhances the wine's structure and complexity, with a subtle and well-integrated oak influence.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a deep ruby red color. The nose opens with aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, and plum, complemented by notes of pencil shavings, violets, and a light mineral note. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a deep and layered structure. The fruit is exceptionally pure and vibrant, supported by supple, finely honed tannins. The palate develops with notes of dark fruit, subtle chocolate, stony minerality, and spice. The finish is long, resonant, and remarkably energetic, with a perfect balance between power and finesse.

Development and drinking window

Several drinking windows are suggested for this vintage. William Kelley of The Wine Advocate (94–96 points) and Antonio Galloni of Vinous (96–98 points) see great aging potential. James Suckling awarded the wine 97 points and recommends drinking from around 2029.

Summary of professional reviews

William Kelley of The Wine Advocate praised the depth, fruit purity, and long finish, calling it a classic Rauzan-Ségla in the making. Antonio Galloni of Vinous rated the wine 96–98 points, calling it one of the most memorable wines of the vintage, with explosive aromatics and perfect balance. James Suckling awarded it 97 points, highlighting its refinement, high Cabernet Sauvignon content, and clear aging potential.

The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice finding the perfect wine? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.