Pagodes de Cos 2017 from Château Cos Estournel is the esteemed second wine of this iconic Saint-Estèphe estate. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon with a complement of Merlot, it embodies the character and finesse of its illustrious Grand Vin, but in a style that is approachable earlier in its life. The 2017 vintage, shaped by a cool and somewhat challenging growing season, delivers a wine of freshness and precise structure. The vines, rooted in the gravelly, well-drained soils of the Médoc, benefit from meticulous vineyard management and vinification in stainless steel and oak, resulting in a wine that showcases both ripe dark berry fruit and a signature mineral backbone. Aging in French oak, often with a significant proportion of new barrels, imparts subtle spice and well-integrated tannins.
Saint-Estèphe is renowned for producing some of Bordeaux's most powerful and long-lived wines. The region sits in the northernmost part of the Médoc, where the deep gravel soils over a clay-rich subsoil lend an unmistakable depth and structure to the wines. The proximity to the Gironde estuary moderates the climate, helping to ensure even ripening and maintaining fresh acidity, even in more challenging vintages. With its roots in history and a tradition of excellence, Saint-Estèphe is often beloved for its robust reds, marked by savoury complexity and ageing potential.
With its youthful vibrancy yet refined tannic profile, Pagodes de Cos 2017 pairs particularly well with classic Bordeaux fare. Roasted lamb—especially with herbs or a rosemary crust—brings out the wine's depth. Rich dishes such as duck confit, beef ribeye, or even a hearty cassoulet are excellent companions. For a regional touch, try it with entrecôte à la bordelaise or a platter of aged cheeses like Comté or Ossau-Iraty.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C after decanting for at least an hour to unlock its bouquet of blackcurrant, graphite and subtle cedar. In its youth, it is expressive and vibrant; however, over the next 5 to 10 years, it will gain further complexity if cellared under good conditions.
