A much anticipated release for you this morning…Simon's note and comments, below.
2018 Château Cos d’Estournel
£875 per 6 bottle case in bond
Deep and inky in the glass, the 2018 Cos is initially subdued aromatically on the nose, gradually revealing its deep, yet fragrant, berry fruit with air. The texture instantly impresses on the palate – seamless and sleek, with a fine mineral line of graphite running through lending direction and vigour. There is a stunning sense of precision, it is hard to find fault. Ample, juicy, dark berry and stone fruits are framed by a subtle toastiness – this shows such a fine sense of proportion and harmony. Taut, energetic and, while showing some of the generous depth of the vintage, it retains a classical feel. They have done it again – the 2018 is long, pure and refuses to fade. Unlike a number of wines in the vintage, the alcohol doesn’t even warrant a mention. This will prove a fascinating wine to follow over time. (SL) 2027-2050.
You may recall that we endorsed and offered the 2016 Château Cos d’Estournel way before the critics had pronounced, as we were so impressed by the barrel tastings. Shortly after, it received 100 points from Neal Martin when he inked in his scores following bottling. The 2016 represented such a turnaround in style; it was a completely compelling wine. Last year, we opted to skip the 2017 – not because of any issue with the quality in the context of the vintage, but because the compulsion to buy en primeur wasn’t there. Then, we come to the 2018, which I regard as being of a quality akin to the 2016, though markedly different stylistically. Revealing as it does, a little more of the generosity of the vintage. That said, I have no doubt that the 2016 and 2018 are destined to be compared to one another over years to come….they are both exceptionally fine wines.
Please see Antonio Galloni’s tasting note and score below.
(97-100) Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
A regal, soaring Saint-Estèphe, the 2018 Cos d'Estournel is also clearly one of the wines of the vintage. On the palate, the 2018 is dark and sumptuous, with striking aromatic presence and silky tannins that wrap around a rich core of exotic fruit. Black cherry, savory herbs, leather, spice and menthol build in the glass in a wine that is both aromatically intense and richly textured. The 2018 has been nothing short of breathtaking on the two occasions I have tasted it so far. Don't miss it.
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