Chateau Rauzan-Gassies 2019

Chateau Rauzan-Gassies is a second-growth 1855 estate. Grapes are hand-picked and undergo 3-week-long fermentations in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks with frequent pumping-overs and addition of yeasts. Aging continues in oak barrels for 14-18 months, of which 25% are new. No press wine is added. Rauzan-Gassies' vineyards are located on alluvial terraces, ∼60% near the chateau and the remaining 40% bordering Chateau Margaux, Palmer & Lascombes. Often, Rauzan-Gassies produces powerful, fairly concentrated wines without the finesse or fragrance usually seen in top Margaux, but reach maturity quickly, usually within 7-8 yrs of vintage.

Wine Advocate: 93
Sporting a deep garnet-purple color, the 2019 Rauzan-Gassies is redolent of baked black currants, blackberry preserves and cherry pie with suggestions of licorice, sandalwood and tilled soil. The medium-bodied palate features mouth-coating black fruit preserves, framed by bold freshness and a wonderfully plush texture, finishing with a spicy kick.

Decanter: 91
An estate that has been producing consistently fruit-forward, medium-term drinking Margaux in recent vintages. This again is a classically-structured wine with austerity on the opening but softening to show raspberry puree, sage and rosemary aromatics and a fine tannic structure.

James Suckling: 93
Aromas of blueberries, blackcurrants, orange zest, black tea, praline and bitter chocolate. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Silky and supple. Excellent balance and freshness.

Jeb Dunnuck: 92
The 2019 Château Rauzan-Gassies is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend that includes 18% Merlot. It offers up a terrific bouquet of red and black currants as well as savory tobacco, spice box, and chocolaty oak nuances. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a balanced, concentrated mouthfeel, lots of firm tannins, and a big finish. It's unquestionably an outstanding wine yet needs 5-6 years in the cellar and will impress over the following two decades.

Jeb Dunnuck: 92

The 2019 Château Rauzan-Gassies is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend that includes 18% Merlot. It offers up a terrific bouquet of red and black currants as well as savory tobacco, spice box, and chocolaty oak nuances. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a balanced, concentrated mouthfeel, lots of firm tannins, and a big finish. It's unquestionably an outstanding wine yet needs 5-6 years in the cellar and will impress over the following two decades.