Cos d'Estournel 2020

From the outset Cos announces subtlety and complexity at the olfactory level. It displays inviting notes of blueberries and black cherries as well as undertones of licorice and, finally, a refreshing touch of peppermint. The attack is like the nose: elegant and fine. Slightly creamy and even smooth character. The wine quickly displays fullness and concentration, while the tannins slowly reveal themselves on the finish. Cos is powerful, tannic and racy. He manages to convey the notion of quiet strength to this power which is ideally countered, or complemented, by the liveliness of the acidic structure. Fruity, precise and persistent finish. 2028-2060 98-100/100.

Dark purple color 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 flavors 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 arrive. 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.