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. Tasted at Lorne restaurant in London.

Perfumed, classy aromas of dark berries, spices, licorice and bitter chocolate; a real essence of Margaux. Rich but sappy, with cassis, blackberry, boysenberry and dark chocolate flavors nicely firmed by ripe acidity. Finishes long and firmly tannic, with excellent spine and grip. By far the highest of these three vintages in tannins.

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. The blend this year is 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, harvested between September 22 and October 6 at an average yield of 37 hectoliters per hectare. It was aged for 18 months in French oak, 60% new. The alcohol is 13%.

While the bottled 2000 still reveals a certain sternness in addition to tough tannin, it is sweeter and more expansive and flavorful. The dark ruby/purple color is saturated and impressive. With coaxing, notes of lead pencil shavings, black currants, earth, cedar, and spice box emerge from a relatively closed, firm, medium to full-bodied wine or, as the French would say, a classic vin de garde (for long-term cellaring). Although austere, it is a classic, authoritatively flavored effort that requires patience. I would like to see sweeter tannin and more flesh built into the mid-palate, but there is no denying the classicism and purity of this 2000. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025.

Mid crimson. Meaty, deep, intense nose (especially of cassis). Round, mouthfilling, and gentle (not dramatic). Easy. Lots of tannins there underneath. Finish a bit cool. (JR)