Refined and classically styled, the 2008 Rauzan-Ségla is a sleeper vintage that's really coming into its own. Cool weather followed by a stunning autumn gave this wine time to ripen slowly, resulting in bright acidity, firm structure, and beautifully integrated oak. It's elegant, fresh, and packed with Médoc charm—definitely one for fans of traditional Bordeaux with energy and finesse.

James Suckling | JS 93
Published: Jun 17, 2016

Here is 2008 with a velvety texture yet the underlying bright acidity comes through at the same time. Medium to full body, firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very pretty and energetic. Just opening now.

Decanter | D 92
Published: Apr 2, 2019
Drink: 2019-2038

A cool summer and a beautiful autumn resulted in the grapes being left on the vines for a long time to fully ripen, with picking commencing in October. Packed full of Médoc character, this has cedar, menthol, leather and cigar box notes - a brilliant lesson in classic Bordeaux. It's extremely approachable and drinkable, and is showing some walnut character already, softened around the edges with lovely smoky notes and gourmet touches, and a mouthwatering, minty sign off with juicy lift on the finish. It should stay on this plateau for a long while yet. Harvest ran from 2 to 21 October with a high yield of 47hl/ha. 60% new oak.

The Wine Advocate | RP 89
Published: Apr 9, 2020
Drink: 2020-2030

Deep garnet in color, the 2008 Rauzan-Ségla has a rather rustic nose of sweaty leather, tobacco and dried herbs over a core of dried mulberries, prunes and underbrush. Medium-bodied, the mid-palate has just enough earthy/savory flavors with chewy tannins and a drying finish. The blend this year is 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, harvested between October 2nd and 21st, at an average yield of 47 hectoliters per hectare. It was aged for 18 months in French oak, 60% new. The alcohol is 13.5%.

Jancis Robinson | JR 16.5+
Published: Mar 21, 2018
Drink: 2019-2032

Tasted blind. Transparent ruby. Inky and mineral and a little austere but fresh and confident. Appetising and the opposite of modern. Good length. 

Chateaurauzansegla.com

Matured at the heart of this historic vineyard, Rauzan-Ségla is an iron fist in a velvet glove. Its modesty and clear delicate touch hide a deep, intense heart. Staying true to the Margaux application, it is a truly noble nectar. Grace that reveals restraint. Multifaceted complexity. Pure sophistication and the charm of tenacity.
Smooth nobility. Intense tannins. Ageing potential.

VINTAGE 2008
The 2008 vintage stands out among the classics. The first nose is all about freshness, where cedar and menthol blend with small red fruits. It is subtly toasted and spiced, thanks to perfectly managed barrel aging. Aeration reveals ripe, intense fruit. The tasting is smooth and pleasant, and the underlying tension adds a lot of enjoyment. A wine that is highly appreciated today.

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Natural Cork
Harvest: 2008
Oak: 18 months in French oak barrels, 60% new
Varietals: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot
Vineyard Area: Approx. 70ha
Soil: Fine, deep gravel with clay and limestone
Harvest: Hand-picked, 2–21 October
Vinification: Plot-by-plot vinification in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats, with gravity-fed vat filling, followed by 18 months of ageing in French oak
Region: Margaux, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 2ème Grand Cru Classé, 1855 Classification

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: 1 hour recommended
Food Pairing: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck, venison, grilled steak, truffle dishes and mature hard cheeses