Chateau Cos d'Estournel 2018 (750ml) (2nd Growth Grand Cru Classe)

Country/ Region:
Saint-Estephe, Medoc, Bordeaux, France

Background:
The Château Cos d'Estournel 2018 (750ml) is a highly acclaimed, full-bodied Bordeaux red wine from the Saint-Estèphe appellation. Classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, it is a lush, age-worthy blend famous for its exotic, spice-driven profile. A "Super Second" growth, this vintage is a powerhouse characterized by dark fruits, rich spices, and refined, velvety tannins. It boasts significant aging potential.

Winemaking:
Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and then undergoes a cold maceration at 7–9°C for about a week to extract color and primary fruit aromatics. The wine is aged for approximately 18 to 20 months in French oak barrels, typically using around 50% new oak, which imparts subtle spice, structure, and toast without overpowering the fruit.

Grapes: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

Tasting note:
Profound aromas of blackberry, black tea, and exotic spices leap from the glass, followed by undertones of graphite, incense, and cedar. The palate is concentrated yet polished, with layers of plum, cassis, and a long, mineral-driven finish supported by velvety tannins.

Food Pairing:
It demands rich, high-protein, and savory dishes to balance its concentration and tannins. For example, pan-seared duck breast, slow-roasted pork tenderloin, Korean Galbi or rich beef rendang.

Scores:
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 98 points
James Suckling: 98 points
Jeb Dunnuck: 98 points
Decanter: 97 points
Wine Spectator: 96 points

Award:
N/A