2020 Chateau Rauzan-Segla Margaux Grand Cru Classe

Step back in time to 1661, when the noble house of Gassies found its new owner, Pierre Desmezures de Rauzan. Pierre was not only the manager of Chateau Margaux but also had the responsibility of Chateau Latour. As if that wasn't impressive enough, he later acquired the vineyards that would become Pichon Lalande and Pichon Baron in Pauillac.

In 1692, after Pierre's passing, his three sons inherited the family holdings in Margaux, while the Pauillac properties went to his daughter Therese. This pivotal moment eventually led to the birth of the renowned Pichon Longueville Baron estate. The Rauzan Segla and Rauzan Gassies estates were later divided, but their shared legacy continued to grow.

Fast forward to the 18th century, and the wines of Rauzan Segla had become world-famous. Even Thomas Jefferson, the future President of the United States, couldn't resist their allure. After visiting Bordeaux in 1787, he promptly ordered 10 cases of Rauzan Segla, declaring it as one of the top Second Growths.

In 1866, a new chapter began for Chateau Rauzan-Segla when it was sold to Mr. Eugene Durand-Dassier. Frederic Cruse, Eugene's son-in-law, took charge of the estate in 1903 and embarked on a remarkable transformation. Under his visionary leadership, a majestic chateau replaced the old Chartreuse-styled building, and the name was changed to Chateau Rausan Segla. 

Over the years, the vineyard faced challenges, like the devastating frost of 1956 that required extensive replanting and the flood damage that affected the cellars. However, every obstacle became an opportunity for improvement. Professor Emile Peynaud was enlisted as a consulting winemaker in 1983, and by 1986, a modern, state-of-the-art winery emerged from the renovations. The quality of the wines soared to new heights. Today, the winemaking is overseen by Nicolas Audebert, who's the Chief Winemaker at Chateau at Canon and Chateau Berliquet too.

In April 1984, Chateau Rauzan Segla was acquired by the Wertheimer brothers, owners of Chanel. The new owners initiated a full renovation, restoring the original spelling of the property and enlisting the expertise of renowned architect Peter Marino. The vineyard was replanted, incorporating the forgotten Petit Verdot grape, and the cellars were rebuilt to perfection. In 2012, Chateau Rauzan Segla embraced an organic approach.

Aging: 18 months in 60% new French oak barrels