2002 Château Rauzan-Ségla
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Tasting notes
Deep garnet-brick colored, the 2002 Rauzan-Ségla is intensely scented of dried mulberries, fig paste, crème de cassis and prunes, with hints of Chinese five spice, leather and dried roses. The medium-bodied palate sports fully mature dried berries and exotic spice notes with a chewy texture and nice refreshing finish. This is in its drinking window sweet-spot right now and should hold for a further 5-6 years. The blend this year is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, harvested between September 28 and October 10 at an average yield of 27 hectoliters per hectare. It was aged for 18 months in French oak, 53% new. The alcohol is 13%.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The darker, smoky 2002 Rauzan-Ségla (58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc) is slightly foursquare, with the more focused, firm style of the vintage, yet nevertheless has good balance and elegance. Classic notes of dark fruits, compost, earth, and tobacco all make an appearance in the bouquet, and it shows the classic elegance and silky texture that’s the hallmark of this estate. Drink it over the coming decade.
Dark crimson. Introvert but reasonably concentrated. Really rather solid for a 2002 with some tannin still in evidence. Surprisingly youthful. Quite persistent. (JR)
About the producer
The Chanel group purchased Margaux Second Growth Ch. Rauzan-Ségla in 1994. Under the iconic fashion house’s ownership and – since 2014 – the guidance of winemaker Nicolas Audebert, the estate has seen significant investment and rapidly become one of Bordeaux’s most desirable.