Château Rauzan-Gassies 2018

The tannins are a little constrictive on the attack, which means the fruit struggles to break free, but as it settles in the glass there are plenty of Margaux floral aromatics and soft berry fruits. 50% new oak.

A red with plenty of blackberry, blackcurrant and tile aromas and flavors. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and compressed on the palate with firm, chewy tannins that are fine and very long. Needs three or four years to open, but will improve nicely going forward. Try after 2024.

74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot; 50% new oak. Barrel sample. Deepest cherry red. Aromatic with pure black fruit and sweet spice. Slightly unexpected on the palate: all the fruit is up front and it rather fades on the finish, but the tannins are smooth and relatively gentle, like dark chocolate. (JH)

Medium-bodied with leafy red fruits, herbs, flowers and soft textures on the palate, this wine only requests a few years in the cellar before it is ready to be enjoyed. 88-90 Pts

Kunz barrel sample 19: Herbs, medium-intensity bouquet, red berries, wood, smoke. Firm, slender palate with sandy tannins, spicy, light aromatics, rustic structure, light fruit, dry finish.

Herbs, medium-bodied bouquet, red berries, wood, smoke. A firm, slender palate with sandy tannins, spicy, light aromatics, rustic structure, light fruit, dry finish. 16/20 2024 - 2036

The 2018 Rauzan-Gassies is deep garnet-purple in color. It opens with pronounced blackcurrant and blackberry aromas, with hints of dried Provençal herbs, underbrush, and sandalwood. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is firm and chewy, with a slight hollowness and an attenuated finish.

The effort that has gone into improving this estate is paying off. A wine like this allows the château to take its rightful classed growth place. Full of rich tannins, the wine also has the stylishness of a Margaux with a fine line of black-currant fruits and a ripe texture. Drink from 2026.