Cos d'Estournel 2020

D’entrée Cos annonce de la subtilité et de la complexité au niveau olfactif. Il affiche d’invitantes notes de myrtilles et de cerises noires ainsi que des nuances de réglisse et, finalement, une rafraîchissante touche de menthe poivrée. L’attaque est à l’image du nez : élégante et fine. Caractère légèrement crémeux et même suave. Rapidement le vin affiche de l’ampleur et de la concentration, tandis que les tannins se révèlent lentement en fin de bouche. Cos est puissant, tannique et racé. Il parvient à transmettre la notion de force tranquille à cette puissance qui est idéalement contrecarrée, ou complétée, par la vivacité de la structure acide. Finale fruitée, précise et persistante. 2028-2060 98-100/100.

Dark purple colour with violet hue and black core. Opulent and multi-layered aroma reminiscent of ripe elderberries, blackcurrant spurs, juicy blackberries and ripe plums. Elegant spiciness with hints of vanilla, cardamom and gingerbread spices, discreet floral aroma in the background, elegant and subtle oak. On the palate very elegant, with great persistence, freshness and precision, silky tannins, discreet acidity and hints of almost salty minerality. A great and elegant Cos.

This is a very refined, polished Cos with superb finesse and length. Medium-to full-bodied, very fine and persistent. Really long with beautiful tannins. Rich, but fresh and linear. Yet, the alcohol is around 13.5%. 62% cabernet and 38% merlot.

You need to take a little time to let the concentrated flavours seep out, this is a long hauler. The tannins build slowly but surely through the palate, sombre and serious right now, particularly for an estate that is known for its exuberance. The opulence is there if you give it time, and as the tannins elongate and relax, richer notes of bilberry fruits, toasted cedar, salted chocolate, turmeric and black pepper spice arrives. Harvest September 10 to 24. A 3.9pH is the highest since 2003, but any threat of low acidity is balanced by high tannins, and relatively low alcohol. A yield of 39hl/ha (43hl/ha in 2019). Jane Anson.