Wines Margaux Château Rauzan Gassies - 2003

Château Rauzan-Gassies 2003 is an excellent example of classic Margaux elegance, crafted from the exceptional terroir of the Médoc. The blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot and sometimes Petit Verdot, as is traditional in this prestigious appellation. The 2003 vintage experienced an unusually hot and dry summer, resulting in rich, concentrated wines with softer tannins and forward fruit. Ageing typically occurs in French oak barrels, enhancing both aromatic complexity and structure. In this mature stage, the wine reveals a bouquet of blackcurrant, ripe plum, leather, tobacco, and truffle, with subtle hints of cedar and violets. The palate is velvety, rounded, and persistent, reflecting both the warmth of the vintage and the finesse of Margaux.

Margaux is renowned for its deep gravel soils, which ensure excellent drainage and encourage the vines to root deeply, enhancing mineral notes and finesse in the finished wine. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, tempered by the proximity to the Gironde estuary, providing mild conditions and reducing risks of frost. Margaux’s history is rich with innovation and prestige, recognised in the 1855 classification with several second growth châteaux, such as Rauzan-Gassies, making this wine both distinctive and collectible.

For food pairings, Château Rauzan-Gassies 2003 shines alongside classic French fare such as roast lamb with herbs, beef Wellington, or duck breast in a red wine sauce. Mushroom risotto or a truffle-infused potato gratin will also highlight the savoury tertiary notes of the wine. For a regional touch, you might pair it with entrecôte à la Bordelaise or a selection of aged, hard cheeses from the southwest of France.

To fully appreciate its depth and evolution, serve this Margaux at 17–18°C after decanting it for an hour. This will allow the complex bouquet and supple texture to express themselves beautifully. Enjoy this bottle as it reaches the peak of its maturity, savouring all the grace and sophistication that Château Rauzan-Gassies and Margaux have to offer.