2011 Cos d'Estournel
By Chateau Cos d'Estournel
2011 Cos d'Estournel from Chateau Cos d'Estournel, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux posed a challenge; an arduous test of skill and precision in the vineyard and beyond. Amidst such climatic caprice, the 2011 Cos d'Estournel from Chateau Cos d'Estournel displayed the resilience and finesse that one has come to expect from such a distinguished estate. This St-Estephe powerhouse, known for its vigorous tannic structure and august cellaring potential, found its own equilibrium in this testing year.
A Sophisticated Investment-worthy Vintage
With a reputation for robust, opulent wines, 2011 presented an opportunity for Chateau Cos d'Estournel to craft a blend that honours their heritage whilst embracing the subtleties rendered by a cooler season. This mix of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with fringes of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, channels the archetypal structure expected from St-Estephe but with unexpected nuances.
A Timeless Expression of Terroir and Talent
Upon decanting, this wine unfurls a tapestry woven with threads of ripe blackberries and intriguing peppery notes—a hedonic whisper hinting at the cooler harvest. The palate offers layers of dark fruit interspersed with both cigar box and earthy truffle tones, culminating in a finish that strides with confidence and subtlety in equal measure. It is the reflection of St-Estephe's terroir speaking through vinous eloquence; a showcase underlined by the adeptness of handling such a nuanced year.
The enduring quality of 2011 Cos d'Estournel resonates with investors who seek wines with an engaging story and strong ageing potential. Its ability to mature with grace positions it as a compelling addition to any fine wine investment portfolio.
In sum, the 2011 offering from Chateau Cos d'Estournel elegantly conveys the harmonic convergence of adversity and artistry. A collectible cuvée that speaks volumes of its storied origins - truly refined, persistent on the palate and sophisticated in its complexity. An astute acquisition for discerning collectors who value both tradition and time-transcending appeal.
Market price (GBP)
£1,000.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
66.67
Scores and tasting notes
A dense, refined wine, with blueberries, blackberries and spices. Full body with integrated tannins and a polished texture. Love the mouthfeel to this. Extremely well done for the vintage, considering the hail in St Estephe. Try in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 20th 2014
Composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2011 Cos d'Estournel gives up compelling notes of roasted nuts, black cherry compote, blueberry pie and red and black currants with touches of yeast extract and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, very firm, grainy textured and with a great core of youthful black fruits, the palate reveals loads of savory layers on the very long finish. This is very youthful and slowly maturing—a very impressive showing for this vintage!
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 November 2018
A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc cropped at 36hl/ha, the 2011 has a pleasant, sedate bouquet that is well defined, perhaps missing a little tension and animation, but replete with succulent blackberry, cassis and violets aromas that render it light and feminine. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy, slightly furry tannins on the entry. The acidity it keen and citric, lending this more vigour than Montrose, whilst the finish has fine precision and length. Jean-Guillaume has fashioned a very fine Saint Estephe for the vintage. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
The 2011 Cos d'Estournel exhibits a dense ruby/purple color and sweet, toasty, oaky notes intermixed with floral and forest floor characteristics. The complex aromatics suggest this is a top success in 2011. In the mouth, the wine is slightly more compact than one would find in a great vintage, such as 2009 and 2010, but it has impressive richness for the vintage as well as light to moderate tannin and admirable purity. It will benefit from 2-5 years of cellaring, and should keep for 15-20 years. Only 30% of the production was utilized for Cos D'Estournel, a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014