Wines Margaux Château Rauzan-Gassies - 2009

Château Rauzan-Gassies 2009 hails from the prestigious Margaux appellation in Bordeaux’s famed Médoc region, a locale renowned for producing some of the world’s most elegant and aromatic red wines. This Second Growth estate, classified in 1855, carefully blends primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, often supported by smaller amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, typical of the Médoc style. The 2009 vintage is celebrated for its opulence and ripeness, a product of a warm and sunny growing season that encouraged excellent phenolic maturity. Vinification at Rauzan-Gassies employs traditional Bordeaux techniques, with careful extraction through gentle pumping over and a significant period in French oak barrels (some new), lending layers of subtle spice and polished tannic structure.

Margaux itself is blessed with a unique terroir: the vineyards rest on deep, gravelly soils that provide excellent drainage, fostering the growth of small, concentrated berries and enhancing the aromatic complexity of the wines. The region’s maritime climate, moderated by proximity to the Gironde estuary, tempers temperature extremes and prolongs the growing season. Historically, Margaux has been admired for producing some of Bordeaux's most perfumed and graceful reds, combining structure with finessed fruit and a characteristic floral nuance, traits particularly notable in signature estates such as Château Rauzan-Gassies.

This 2009 Margaux shines alongside roasted or grilled meats such as lamb shoulder with herbs, beef Wellington, or duck breast with red fruit sauce. Its sophistication also complements classic Bordelais fare like entrecôte bordelaise or rich mushroom-based dishes. Mature cheeses—particularly aged Comté or Gruyère—make excellent partners, as do earthy sides like truffled potato purée.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least two hours before serving to allow its bouquet to unfold. Serve at 16-18°C to fully appreciate its complex aromatics, velvety structure, and lingering finish. This wine is now entering its plateau of maturity, offering deep pleasure to those with a taste for classic Left Bank Bordeaux.