2009 Chateau Cos d’Estournel 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1x750ml

Vinous 91

The 2009 is a Saint-Estephe lauded in some quarters upon release, anointed with perfect scores, albeit not from myself. From my introduction in barrel with then estate manager, Jean-Guillaume Prats, the 2009 felt over-endowed, a wine predesigned to flutter its lashes during en primeur, one that equated sheer power with quality. I last drank this vintage six years ago. It remains decadent and ostentatious on the nose, rich and almost over-generous with creme de cassis and iodine scents. It comes across more Napa than Bordeaux, and contentiously, perhaps that was the intention? Likewise, the palate is decked out with lush and slightly overripe black fruit, relatively low acidity and plenty of weight but not much in the way of finesse. Admittedly, I don’t find the wine unenjoyable, and my score should reflect that. You have to admire its hedonism, and if that s your bag, you ll love it. But the 2009 harks back to a period when even some of the Medoc s grandest chateaux seemed to follow a recipe, when more was always more. [Neal Martin, 01/02/2025]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2040

Robert Parker 100

Deep garnet colored, the 2009 Cos d’Estournel features a myriad of wonderfully intense notes, including blackcurrant pastilles, redcurrant jelly, kirsch and blueberry compote with hints of rose hip tea, sauteed herbs, underbrush, pencil shavings and Indian spices. Full-bodied, rich and opulently fruited in the mouth, it has beautifully plush tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and very spicy. [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 23/02/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2065