1996 Cos d'Estournel
By Chateau Cos d'Estournel
1996 Cos d'Estournel from Chateau Cos d'Estournel, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
Traversing the esteemed vineyards of St-Estephe, one unearths the profound character of the 1996 Cos d'Estournel from Chateau Cos d'Estournel. Reflecting a year that was favourably paradoxical in its climate, this vintage impresses with a balance that stands out markedly within the tapestry of Bordeaux's offerings.
Investment-Calibre Vintage
For connoisseurs and investors alike, this particular year has signified an opportunity to engage with a wine that encapsulates the virtues of both resilience and grace. The season commenced with auspicious beginnings, only to segue into periods where the vines were tested by nature's caprice. Yet, despite—or perhaps because of—such trials, the 1996 vintage emerged triumphant.
A Time-Defined Tapestry
One may describe the 1996 Cos d'Estournel as a masterful composition, blending the robust fortitude of Cabernet Sauvignon dark fruits with the supple whispers of Merlot's more delicate nuances. On the palate, it presents an intricate mélange of blackcurrant and cedar, aged beautifully with hints of cigar box and earthy undertones—a symphony to savor in each sip. Despite being in its silver years, it retains a youthful vigour indicative of its meticulous crafting and superior heritage.
The vintage's backbone is its admirable tannic structure, which has mellowed but not waned. This sustains a finish that seemingly unfurls like Burgundian silk - complex yet subtle, enduring yet ever-changing in its echoes.
In encapsulating the essence of the 1996 Cos d'Estournel from Chateau Cos d'Estournel for both palates and portfolios, one finds a vinotheque cornerstone whose worth extends beyond mere liquid luxury; it is a testament to vinicultural valiance amidst Bordeaux's climatic theatre. This heavenly parcel from St-Estephe offers not just drinking pleasure but also investment prudence to those who pine for a storied bottle from an epoch that surmounted nature's trial by water and sun.Market price (SGD)
$3,370.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
144.29
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at the château, the 1996 Cos d'Estournel was aged in 65% new oak (unlike the 1995 which was 100%) and is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot. It has a straight down the line, intense and focused, graphite and melted tar bouquet. It is almost Pauillac in style, no surprise given its proximity. The palate is medium-bodied with fresh acidity, finer tannin than the 1986 Cos d'Estournel tasted alongside, but sharing those same leitmotifs of black pepper and sea salt. I like the nonchalance of this Cos d'Estournel. At 20 years it is not an ostentatious wine, not determined to go out and impress, but its nuance, stylishness and classicism grow on you. Its virtues seem to register only after you swallow the wine and find yourself tempted back for more. Excellent. Tasted July 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
Made from 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot, this is a huge, backward wine. The 1996 possesses an opaque purple color, as well as pure aromatics consisting of cassis, grilled herbs, coffee, and toasty new oak. Massive in the mouth, and one of the most structured and concentrated young Cos d'Estournels I have ever tasted, this thick, structured, tannic wine has closed down significantly since bottling. It requires 7-8 years of cellaring, and should last for 30-35 years. It is a fabulous Cos, but patience is required. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2030.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #122 April 1999
Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel dinner at St. John. This is rather disappointing compared to other vintages. The nose is relatively lightweight, earthy and leathery but lacking real character and vigour. Just a hint of coconut emerges with time from the new oak. The palate is linear, medium-bodied, balanced but it does not really take you anywhere. What you might describe as a “pointed” wine, rather than fanning out towards the finish. I expected more. Drink now-2016. Tasted March 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2009