Chateau Cos d'Estournel 2020

Château Cos d'Estournel's 2020 vintage is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux, France. As a Second Growth estate classified in 1855, Cos d'Estournel is renowned for producing wines of exceptional quality and longevity.

Blend and Winemaking

The 2020 vintage is composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot. The harvest took place from September 10 to 24, yielding grapes of optimal ripeness. The wine was aged in French oak barrels, with 55% being new oak, contributing to its complexity and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep garnet-purple hue.

• Nose: Initially reserved, it gradually reveals vibrant aromas of crushed blackcurrants, juicy blackberries, and kirsch, accompanied by hints of cinnamon stick, star anise, lilacs, and crushed rocks.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with energetic black fruit and mineral layers, supported by fine-grained, ripe tannins and seamless freshness, culminating in a long, fragrant finish.

Critical Acclaim

• Decanter: 99 points – "A very refined, polished Cos with superb finesse and length. Medium-to full-bodied, very fine and persistent. Really long with beautiful tannins. Rich, but fresh and linear."

• Jeb Dunnuck: 99 points – "Deep purple-hued...offering gorgeous cassis and darker currant fruits as well as tobacco, lead pencil, acacia flowers, and graphite. Full-bodied, incredibly elegant...with silky tannins, perfect balance, and a great, great finish."

• James Suckling: 98 points – "This is a very refined, polished Cos with superb finesse and length. Medium-to full-bodied, very fine and persistent. Really long with beautiful tannins. Rich, but fresh and linear."

• Wine Advocate: 94 points – "The 2020 Cos d’Estournel is composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot. The deep garnet-purple colored wine is very closed at this youthful stage but with much shaking it opens out to vivacious notes of crushed blackcurrants, juicy blackberries, kirsch, and cinnamon stick, plus suggestions of star anise, lilacs, and crushed rocks."

Serving and Cellaring

This wine is approachable in its youth after decanting but will benefit from extended cellaring. It is best enjoyed at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F). Pair it with rich dishes such as roasted lamb, game meats, or aged cheeses to complement its depth and complexity.

Conclusion

The 2020 Château Cos d'Estournel exemplifies the estate's commitment to crafting wines of elegance, power, and longevity. Its harmonious balance of fruit, structure, and freshness ensures it will be a centerpiece in any collection and a delight for connoisseurs seeking the pinnacle of Saint-Estèphe excellence.