Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Cos d'Estournel - 1990

Château Cos d'Estournel 1990, from the renowned Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux's Médoc region, is a red wine celebrated for its power and depth. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and minor quantities of other Bordeaux varietals, this vintage epitomises the structure and longevity associated with the château. The 1990 season was marked by optimal weather conditions: a warm summer followed by a dry, slow-ripening autumn, culminating in grapes of remarkable maturity and concentration. The estate is known for meticulous vinification, with careful extraction and ageing in new oak barrels, yielding wines that marry complexity with finesse and subtle spice notes from barrel ageing.

Saint-Estèphe lies at the northern end of the Médoc, on the left bank of the Gironde estuary. Its gravelly soils are embedded with clay, lending distinctive power and tannic backbone to the wines, often distinguishing them from their neighbours in Pauillac or Saint-Julien. The maritime climate here is moderated by the river, offering gentle slopes and perfect drainage, essential for healthy, expressive vineyards. With roots reaching back centuries, the appellation is steeped in history and tradition, and Cos d'Estournel itself is famed for its exotic, pagoda-topped architecture as well as for consistently producing some of Bordeaux’s most sought-after wines.

To fully appreciate this mature classic, match it with dishes that can stand up to its evolved structure and complexity. Traditional Bordeaux pairings include slow-roasted lamb with rosemary, entrecôte marchand de vin, or game birds such as pheasant. The wine’s secondary notes of leather, cedar, and earthy truffle also complement wild mushroom fricassées or aged hard cheeses like Comté or Mimolette. These pairings will highlight the nuanced tertiary aromas that this 1990 vintage displays after over three decades of bottle age.

For optimal enjoyment, serve at 17-18°C. Decant gently for about an hour before tasting to allow the bouquet to fully unfurl, but handle with care, as older vintages can be delicate and may have sediment. This will enable you to experience the full maturity and elegance of this exceptional Saint-Estèphe.