The grand vin, the 2011 Rauzan Segla, is a beauty. Aromas of spring flowers, graphite, creme de cassis and kirsch jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored 2011. Lots of nobility, complexity and richness characterize a wine that could be mistaken for a first-growth in 2011. This medium to full-bodied, concentrated, gorgeously pure, well-balanced beauty should be forgotten for 2-4 years and drunk over the following 15-20. Kudos to administrator John Kolasa and his team. 93 points

The nose is nicely defined with crisp blackberry with fine minerality, with hints of orange blossom emerging with aeration. The palate is very well balanced with silky smooth tannins, very cohesive with a pleasing sense of tension. This shows very satisfying purity and femininity with excellent persiste ncy towards the finish. Excellent. 91-93 points

This is the most tannic Rauzan Ségla ever produced (IPT 103) and yet, the wine has retained its refine tactile qualities and delicate flavours. It is particularly long on finish but quite tannic and well-coated, which bodes well for the future. The small yield (27hl/ha) can explain the concentrated expression of fruit. With a pH at 3.33, and if we bear in mind that acidity reinforces tannins, it is incredible that this wine should still boast fine-grained tannins and appear pulpy and juicy when, really, it should be harsh. I graded the sample I had in my glass but it is very likely the score will go up significantly at the end of the elevage. What I can already say is that Rauzan Ségla 2011 is a cru to cellar for decades and that it will evolve very slowly once bottled. A lovely success and a label on the up. A blend of 62% cabernet sauvignon, 36% merlot, 2% petit verdot. 91 points