1995 Chateau Cos d’Estournel 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1x375ml

Vinous 91

The 1995 Cos d’Estournel was matured in 100% new oak and according to the estate was intentionally picked at a higher ripeness level than previous years. It is definitely showing more maturity than the 1996 Cos d’Estournel with more bricking evident on the rim. Similarly the nose does not convey the same vigor and fruité as the following vintage, with notes of cigar humidor, woodland and autumn leaves. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, which is probably its best quality. It is a little drier than I would like, although the acidity is well judged and there are attractive notes of clove and bay leaf towards the finish. It translates Saint-Estèphe typicité but just falls short of the superior wines produced from the modern day onwards. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical at the property. [Neal Martin, 10/03/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030

Robert Parker 90

Tasted from a double-magnum at dinner at the chateau in 1999, it was another immensely backward, masculine wine. Then at the Farr horizontal, it had failed to develop as I would like. The nose is more subdued than last time, very oakey and broody. The palate still has excessive new oak (100% in fact) and is very fleshy with super-ripe raspberry and strawberry. It is enjoyable but lacks typicity. I actually prefer the 1994 to the 1995. Tasted September 2005. [Neal Martin, 09/01/2005]