Chateau Rauzan Segla 1996

Avis professionnels

Jancis Robinson (17.50)

Looks more evolved than the 1995. Lightly floral nose – very pretty. Very beautifully balanced and very Margaux. Fragrant and lovely lift. But with good fully ripe fruit underneath. 9% press wine in here. Really riding the crest of a wave. They are starting to serve this vintage at meals, decanting two hours before. Sweet finish. Real lightness of touch – just what claret is about. Fine tannins on the end. The only slight weakness is on the finish – not that persistent. (JR)

Rene Gabriel (18)

Medium-dark wine-red with signs of maturity, hence the slightly brownish rim. Nutty bouquet, dark fine woods, some chocolate notes, quite full-bodied. On the second sip, it reveals lovely spice and dried herbs, especially thyme. Velvety on the palate, densely fine, substantial and balanced, with a concentrated length. It has developed wonderfully and is now showing its full maturity. A reassuring, gently dry Margaux with class. For me, it exceeds my earlier expectations.