Les Pagodes de Cos Saint-Estèphe 2025 - Second vin (Primeurs)

The vinification facility, as spectacular in its own right as the château’s pagodas, is equipped with tank elevators that allow for gravity-fed processing—not only during winemaking but also during aging—and was first put into use in 2008. It represents the culmination of the estate’s considerable efforts to elevate this wine to the highest possible level, with the ambition of rivaling the First Growths in quality. The deep gravel soil generally makes it the full-bodied of the Médoc wines, the most voluptuous in texture, while retaining the finesse and complexity characteristic of its proximity to Lafite. Recent vintages have gained even greater aromatic purity and sincerity of expression. A highly aromatic and intense white Bordeaux is produced on the soils of La Goulée, a little further north, and bears that name.

Supple and full-bodied, with a soft yet lively texture, crisp tannins, refreshing acidity, aromas of ripe, juicy fruit—more blueberry than blackcurrant—and a hint of crushed stone on the finish. Very well-structured, without being flashy, but with a lovely confidence. A serious wine, yet one that also has a gentle side. A very good Pagodes. There’s a lot to appreciate here. I love the texture and the length. 1% Cabernet Franc rounds out the blend. 2030–2040

Businessman Michel Reybier, who acquired the estate in 2000, invested heavily to equip Cos d’Estournel with everything necessary to produce the finest wine possible. The construction of one of the world’s most advanced wineries, designed by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte, is a prime example of this. Cos has always produced expressive wines with a rather exuberant style. In the early 2000s, it even veered into caricature at times, pushing the finesse that the terroir is capable of expressing into the background. The tide has turned, and with its latest vintages, Cos has rediscovered an expression that once again captivates us.

A juicy and velvety Cos second wine, with spicy and nutty notes that highlight the wine’s black fruit aromas. It has a medium-bodied to full-bodied palate, with juicy fruity notes and a savory finish. It displays good structure while remaining harmonious and refined. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 11% Cabernet Franc.