The Producer
The history of Château Cos d'Estournel begins in 1791, when Louis-Gaspard d'Estournel inherits several plots of vines on the hill of Cos, in Saint-Estèphe. Convinced of the exceptional potential of this terroir, he gradually undertakes to expand the estate and very early develops the marketing of his wines internationally, particularly towards India and Asia. This opening to the East earns him the nickname "Maharajah of Saint-Estèphe" and inspires the unique architecture of the château, recognizable by its pagodas. The reputation of the estate solidifies throughout the 19th century and is concretized in 1855 by its classification as a Second Grand Cru Classé. After several changes of ownership, the estate is acquired in 2000 by Michel Reybier, who initiates a new phase of modernization while preserving the heritage and identity of Cos d'Estournel.
Located to the South of the Saint-Estèphe appellation, at the border with Pauillac, the vineyard currently covers 100 hectares and consists of a mosaic of plots with varied geological characteristics. The soils mainly combine deep gravel with clay-limestone formations, providing particularly favorable conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The average age of the vines is around 45 years, with some century-old plots carefully preserved. The work in the vineyard is based on a plot-by-plot approach and constant attention to the balance of the ecosystem. The harvest is manual, and each batch is vinified separately to respect the particularities of each terroir. Inaugurated in 2008, the gravity cellar allows for the handling of grapes and juices without the use of pumping, thus limiting mechanical interventions and promoting a gentle extraction.
Today, under the ownership of Michel Reybier, Cos d'Estournel continues its development by combining Bordeaux tradition and technical innovation. The management of the estate relies on a specialized team that ensures the precision of the vinifications and the consistency of the property's style. The Grand Vin, crafted from a rigorous selection of the best plots and the oldest vines, represents the most refined expression of this terroir. Alongside it, Pagodes de Cos offers a complementary interpretation, while Cos d'Estournel Blanc, Pagodes de Cos Blanc, and G d'Estournel enrich the range. Power, depth, aromatic complexity, and finesse of tannins characterize the identity of the red wines, which combine concentration and elegance. More than two centuries after its creation, Cos d'Estournel continues to uphold the bold vision of its founder, while affirming a resolutely forward-looking approach.
The Wine
CABERNET SAUVIGNON : 55%
MERLOT : 45%
Tasting
The 1998 vintage, thanks to exceptional Merlots and surprisingly powerful Cabernets Sauvignon, gave birth to a seductive, spicy, and fruity wine, fresh with velvety tannins.
Scores and Notes
97
Vinous
17/20
Jancis Robison
92
La RVF
90
James Suckling