Wines Saint-Estèphe Cos d'Estournel - 2009

Château Cos d’Estournel 2009 stands as one of the Médoc’s most illustrious wines, hailing from the Saint-Estèphe AOC, a northern stronghold of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. This vintage showcases a traditional blend prevalent in the region, primarily driven by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, and occasionally a nuanced presence of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The exceptional 2009 vintage was marked by a long, warm growing season, yielding grapes with remarkable ripeness and concentration. At Cos d’Estournel, winemaking expertise blends tradition and innovation; fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats, followed by patient ageing in French oak barrels—often 80% new oak—imparting a sophisticated blend of structure and finesse.

Saint-Estèphe, the northernmost commune of Médoc’s prestigious appellations, is defined by its gravel-rich soils interspersed with clay, which lend the wines their robust tannic backbone and superb ageing potential. The maritime climate of Bordeaux, with its proximity to the Gironde estuary, tempers temperature extremes and promotes the slow maturation required for complex, ageworthy reds. Historically, Cos d’Estournel has earned a reputation for power balanced with exotic perfume; its pagoda-like architecture and commitment to excellence cement its place among Bordeaux’s finest estates.

The 2009 Cos d’Estournel, with its opulent nose of blackcurrant, plum, liquorice and an undercurrent of spice and cedar, pairs sublimely with classic dishes such as roast rack of lamb, rich beef Wellington, or duck breast with a red wine reduction. For a regional pairing, consider entrecôte à la bordelaise or confit de canard with sarladaise potatoes. Hard, mature cheeses such as Comté or aged gouda also complement its structure and depth.

For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine for at least two hours before serving to fully reveal its complexity. Serve at 17-18°C to really allow the bouquet and palate to shine, and savour it in large, tulip-shaped glasses to appreciate its aromatic richness and evolving character.