2003 Chateau Cos d’Estournel 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1x750ml

Robert Parker 97

Under the inspired ownership of Michel Reybier and his talented winemaking team, led by Jean-Guillaume Prats, Cos d’Estournel’s quality has been on the rise since the 2000 vintage. The 2003 is one of the greatest offerings this hallowed estate has ever produced. This 15,000-case cuvee is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon (atypically high), 27% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. With a pH of 3.72, and 13.5% alcohol, it is a substantial yet extraordinarily elegant claret. There are no hints of over-ripeness (prunes, saddle leather, etc.) or exoticism, just classic black currant, melted licorice, blackberry, smoke, and spice notes. Seventy percent of the crop made it in to this cuvee, which was fashioned from low yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare. Cos d’Estournel appears to have done everything right, waiting to harvest fully ripe fruit (the Merlot between September 12-14, and the Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon between September 18 – 25). The wine possesses a thickness and unctuosity typical of the top 2003 northern Medocs as well as remarkable definition and elegance. It is the most impressive young Cos I have ever tasted. However, the tannin is high, so it will require patience. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. Bravo! [04/26/2004]

Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030