Ségla 2014

Winery Background and History

Ségla is the second wine of Château Rauzan-Ségla, a prestigious estate in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Established in the 17th century, Château Rauzan-Ségla has a rich history of producing exceptional wines that exemplify the elegance and complexity characteristic of Margaux. The introduction of Ségla allows the estate to offer a more approachable expression of its vineyards, reflecting the quality and style of the grand vin while being accessible at a younger age.

Producer and Winemaker

As of the 2014 vintage, Château Rauzan-Ségla was under the ownership of the Wertheimer family, proprietors of the Chanel fashion house. The winemaking team was led by John Kolasa, who managed the estate until his retirement in 2014, after which Nicolas Audebert took over as the managing director and winemaker. With experience from his tenure at Cheval des Andes in Argentina, Audebert focused on precision viticulture and winemaking techniques to enhance the expression of the estate’s unique terroir.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Rauzan-Ségla encompass approximately 51 hectares, situated on the deep gravel soils typical of the Margaux appellation. These well-draining soils are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, allowing the vines to develop deep root systems and access essential nutrients. The proximity to the Gironde estuary provides a moderating influence on the climate, reducing temperature extremes and promoting a long, even ripening period. The 2014 growing season was marked by a cool and wet spring, which delayed flowering. However, a warm and dry summer followed, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness, resulting in wines with balanced acidity and refined tannins.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2014 Ségla is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, with the balance comprising Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for the 2014 vintage were hand-harvested and underwent meticulous sorting to ensure only the highest quality fruit was utilized. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise management of fermentation kinetics. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak, for a period of approximately 12 months. This aging process imparted complexity and structure to the wine while preserving the purity of the fruit.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2014 vintage has an alcohol content of approximately 13%.

Tasting Notes

The 2014 Ségla presents an enticing nose with an ethereal perfume, exhibiting a violet-edged quality wrapped around a powerful, graphite backbone with polished and supple tannins. On the palate, it is more approachable than the main bottling, very much drinkable now thanks to the use of less oak, but also age-able for another 10 years. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with roasted meats, particularly lamb and beef, as well as game dishes. Its balanced acidity and refined tannins complement the richness of these foods, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

For optimal enjoyment, it is recommended to decant the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to fully express its aromas and flavors. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C (60-64°F).

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under proper conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with appropriate humidity—this wine has the potential to develop further complexity over the next several years. It is suitable for consumption now but can be cellared to enhance its tertiary characteristics.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 95/100

• Vinous: 94+/100