2000 Château Rauzan-Ségla

Description

94    Jane Anson for Decanter
“This was a warmer vintage than 2001, with more tannins and alcohol present. It’s a little foursquare at first and still a little less seductive than the 2001, but it will go the distance for sure. Notes of woodsmoke, cigar box, leather, hickory and exotic spices appear on the palate, with real width, depth and density throughout. A very good wine.” (4/2019)

94    Jeb Dunnuck
“I loved the 2000 Rauzan-Ségla, another mature yet balanced wine that shows the hallmark complexity and elegance of the estate. Beautiful currants, strawberries, lead pencil, and spice notes give way to a medium to full-bodied wine that has a layered texture, resolved tannins, and good mid-palate depth. I love its complexity, its seamless texture, and its great finish. This is a beautiful 2000 that’s drinking at point today yet will easily keep for another two decades.” (5/2019)

94    Neal Martin for Vinous
“The 2000 Rauzan-Ségla was the only vintage that I procured myself out in the market because of many fond memories. I am so glad I did fill in the gap because I feel it is a rather overlooked gem. It has a gorgeous bouquet, a little backward at first but then opening with black cherries, blueberry jam and hints of Provençal herbs, though none of the saddle leather I noticed back in 2010. The palate is medium-bodied with smooth tannins, nigh perfect acidity and a rich, quite grippy finish. The estate prefers the 2001 but I find this possesses more ambition.” (4/2019)

94    Roger Voss for Wine Enthusiast
“At first taste, this wine seems more new world than Bordeaux. But then the subtle, perfumed aromas and structured fruit show through, along with the clean acidity and black tannic fruits. Give this wine at least 12 years before opening.” (6/2003)

93    James Suckling
“This is just starting to open up on the nose with tobacco, plums and currants throughout. Full-bodied, with lots of tobacco and chocolate that turns to notes of coffee and fruit on the finish. The palate is just starting to come around. Why should you wait on this? The winemaker says that it will be better after 2012. Rich and slightly austere still at the finish.” (12/2011)

90    Lisa Perrotti-Brown for Wine Advocate
“Deep brick in color, the 2000 Rauzan-Ségla gives a mature nose of sandalwood, sweaty leather, cinnamon stick and star anise with wafts of raisin cake, dried cherries and preserved plums. Medium-bodied with a chewy texture and a good amount of remaining dried berries and savory layers, it finishes just a little rustic.” (4/2020)