2006 Chateau Cos d’Estournel 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1x750ml

Vinous 91

The 2006 Cos d’Estournel, for my mind, has always been leagues above its rival, Montrose, principally because its rival took a rare misstep in this vintage. It has an attractive ferrous bouquet with undergrowth and hints of Indian spice. The palate is medium-bodied and quite fleshy for Saint-Estèphe, the Merlot in quite expressive. The texture has a satisfying graininess and that spiciness returns towards the rather conservative, steadfast finish. It is a solid Cos d’Estournel, not one from the very top drawer, but it should provide another 15 years of drinking pleasure. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical in London. [Neal Martin, 10/03/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038

Robert Parker 92

Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. The Cos d’Estournel ’06 has a very opulent, gregarious nose: high-toned, slightly volatile black fruit with a hint of eau-de-vie. The palate is full-bodied with firm, bold tannins, rich and decadent but certainly disjointed at the moment. There is something Tuscan/Napa Valley reminiscent in this Saint Estephe that is so daringly spicy and exotic towards the glossy finish. Like your best friend that cannot help but show off. Tasted January 2010. [Neal Martin, 01/01/2010]