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

AG97 The 2005 Rauzan-Ségla is captivating right from the very first taste. Soaring aromatics and bright veins of minerality confer energy to this statuesque Margaux. The 2005 is still a very young wine. In fact, I would cellar it for a few years. I am blown away by its energy, vibrant and sheer character. Bright red-toned fruit, spice, rose petal, blood orange and crushed rocks literally soar out of the glass. The 2005 captures the richness of the year, but it remains a classically built, mid-weight wine of remarkable freshness and tension. Rauzan-Ségla might very well be the most under the radar Left Bank wine in 2005. Magnificent.

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.

DR97 A majestic wine exuding refreshing cedar, cool blueberry and white flower aromas that lead seamlessly to a palate of impressive density, grip and length. Closing in on its 20-year mark, the wine has a palate that retains youthful, bright fruit, but shows subtle tertiary aspects of truffle and forest floor. Serve with a main gourmet course for a special occasion or just drink it whenever you can