At a glance

Producer

Château Rauzan-Ségla

Region

Margaux, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Notes of blackcurrant, cedar, graphite, tobacco, and violet emerge with hints of vanilla from refined oak.

Evolution: Fruit will evolve from bright ripe berries to mature truffle, leather, savory notes.

At peak: Complex layers of dark fruits, earth, mineral, and spice with polished tannins and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh and balanced acidity providing backbone

Tannins

Firm, well-structured and silky with fine grain

Alcohol

13.5-14%

Aging potential

Excellent 30-40+ years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2060

Optimal window

2024 to 2063

Current status

Approaching early maturity, showing primary fruit with developing complexity

Current condition

The wine displays youthful tannins and bright acidity; ready for patient cellaring or near-term enjoyment with decanting.

2016 vintage Bordeaux at Rauzan-Ségla is a classic structured year with ripe tannins and balanced acidity that favors long-term aging. Expected optimal drinking starts roughly 8 years post vintage to allow tannin integration and flavor development.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roast beef, mushroom dishes, game birds, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Decanting allows tannins to soften and aromatic complexity to open up.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Reduced use of chemical treatments, green harvest, water management, energy efficiency in winery operations, and waste reduction measures.

Château Rauzan-Ségla incorporates many sustainable viticultural practices focusing on ecosystem diversity, minimal chemical intervention, energy efficiency, and careful water use. While not certified organic or biodynamic yet, the estate actively pursues sustainability aligned with modern environmental goals and offsets carbon emissions related to both vineyard and export logistics.