Viniou Reviews
Cos d’Estournel 2016, from the esteemed Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux’s Left Bank, is a profound expression of Médoc’s storied terroir. Known for its powerful yet refined clarets, Cos d’Estournel is typically a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, and occasionally touched by Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Although precise blend percentages vary by vintage, the 2016 is widely recognised for its clarity of structure, vibrant fruit, and remarkable length. The year 2016 was exceptional in Bordeaux, marked by a wet early season that shifted to a warm, dry summer, producing wines of both ripeness and freshness. Vinification at Cos d’Estournel is meticulous, combining traditional techniques with innovative approaches, resulting in wines of both opulence and balance.
The Saint-Estèphe appellation sits at the northern end of the Haut-Médoc, characterised by gravelly soils overlaying clay and limestone. This distinct terroir lends the wines their hallmark robustness and longevity. The proximity to the Gironde estuary moderates the climate, ensuring a gradual ripening period vital for Cabernet Sauvignon’s slow maturation, while the clay content preserves moisture, providing resilience in drier vintages. Cos d’Estournel, with its exotic architecture and storied history, remains one of the region’s most celebrated estates, consistently producing wines that marry density and elegance.
Ideal food pairings for Cos d’Estournel 2016 centre on richly flavoured dishes. Classic pairings include roast lamb with herbs, beef Wellington or venison with a berry reduction. The structure and tannins of the wine stand up beautifully to robust fare such as duck confit or a mushroom and truffle risotto. For a touch of local colour, pair with entrecôte à la Bordelaise, highlighting the regional connection.
To enjoy this wine at its best, decanting for at least an hour is recommended to reveal its depth and aromatic complexity. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to allow the layers of dark fruit, spice, and cedar to unfold gracefully. This 2016 Cos d’Estournel promises immediate pleasure but will reward further cellaring over the next two decades.
