2016 Rauzan-Ségla, Margaux

I continue to love the 2016 Rauzan-Ségla, a thrillingly complete, flawlessly balanced, and borderline perfect Margaux that should be snatched up by readers. Notes of cassis, graphite, tobacco leaf, and earth all give way to a full-bodied effort that has building tannins, no hard edges, and a level of purity and elegance that’s just about off the charts. Given its purity and balance, it’s accessible today, but it will be best with 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for 3-4 decades.

I’ve been fortunate enough to taste 2016 Rauzan-Ségla a few times over the years and have always been impressed. But it had been a while, and a newly arrived parcel seemed like the perfect opportunity to revisit it. I was floored—this wine has leveled up in a striking way and is simply a can’t-miss bottle. Aromatically, it shows classic Margaux floral notes, a touch of blood orange, and cassis. But it’s the palate that really takes hold—pure, focused, elegant, and seamless. There’s a panoply of red and black fruits, but what truly stood out was the finish: pure Cabernet essence, long and mouthwatering, begging for another sip. 2016 Rauzan-Ségla still has a long way to go—easily another two decades—but considering how beautifully it’s drinking now, I can’t recommend it enough. This is a masterful Margaux that blends luxury and precision perfectly. It’s truly one of the greats of an unforgettable Bordeaux vintage, and as unfussy and delicious as it gets. Considering the current market price, it’s also one of the best buys in collectible Bordeaux. Absolutely superb.