Chateau Cos d'Estournel, Saint Estephe Pagodes de Cos 2018

Chateau Cos d'Estournel, Saint Estephe Second Growth, moved from good to better in 2000 when it was bought by the industrious Michel Reybier. With the help of previous owner, Jean-Guillaume Prats, they designed the most modern wine-making facilities in the entire Bordeaux appellation at the time. Its a marvel from an architectural point of view, with its unique blend of simplicity and modern technology.

The 100 hectares vineyard is planted to 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot.

Their second wine,Les Pagodes de Cos was called Marbuzet, since the majority of the fruit came from their vineyard called Marbuzet, until both properties were purchased by Michel Reybier. Today, the grapes used in Les Pagodes de Cos include fruit from Marbuzet, as well as grapes from young vines and declassified wine intended for Cos dEstournel. Since 2005, Les Pagodes de Cos has morphed into one of the better second wines in all of Bordeaux. On average, Les Pagodes de Cos is aged in 40% new French oak barrels.

"A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, this second wine accounts for about 55% of production. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Les Pagodes de Cos sashays out of the glass with youthful, presumptuous notes of Black Forest cake, raspberry preserves, cassis and spice cake with nuances of lavender, chocolate box, anise and underbrush. Medium-bodied, the palate has wonderful elegance and precision, with a very finely grained frame and seamless freshness supporting the soft-spoken red and black fruits, finishing with a quiet intensity."

The Wine Advocate 92 pts.

93+ Points - The Wine Advocate.