2005 Chateau Rauzan-Segla, Margaux, Bottle (750ml)

LP97 The 2005 Rauzan Segla is made from 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-brick in color, it prances out of the glass with showy notes of Morello cherries, blackcurrant pastilles, and candied violets with hints of pencil lead, crushed rocks, and clove oil, plus a suggestion of sandalwood. The medium to full-bodied palate is bright and youthful with taut, muscular red and black fruit layers beautifully framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and amazing freshness, finishing long, long, long. A compelling, spine-tingling glass to enjoy right now, this should easily cellar for a further 30 years+. Owned by Chanel since 1994, John Kolasa came on board that same year. He swiftly instigated a strict selection process, introducing the second label, Segla, in 1995. One of the cornerstones of Kolasa’s ambitions for the estate included transforming the previously neglected vineyards with a strict replanting regime for the diseased / eutypa-affected vines at the higher density of 10,000 vines per hectare, the installation of a new drainage system, and the inclusion of Petit Verdot in the mix, which was not present in the vineyards prior to Kolasa’s arrival. With this spectacular 2005, we can begin to see the fruits of Kolasa's labors.