Les Pagodes de Cos 2018 is the second wine from Château Cos d'Estournel, making it one of the most coveted "insiders" within Saint Estèphe. You get the signature of an iconic château, but in a style that's more approachable while retaining a surprising amount of depth. What exactly is Les Pagodes de Cos? It's the second wine from Cos d'Estournel, crafted with the same attention to detail and a blend clearly built on finesse and tension. In the 2018 vintage, this is evident in a combination of ripe fruit, fresh energy, and a silky smooth structure that makes this wine exceptionally appealing in its class.
The grapes come from Bordeaux, France, on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, within the Saint-Estèphe AC appellation. The Cos d'Estournel vineyards are situated on the "hill of Cos," a classic gravel ridge that retains heat while simultaneously ensuring drainage, a key to both ripeness and tension in the wine. Château Cos d'Estournel is historically one of the most recognizable names in the Médoc, with a style known for power and precision, never clumsy or heavy. Les Pagodes de Cos is made as its own interpretation of the same terroir, with a profile that is more approachable yet clearly demonstrates the allure and layering of the estate.
The wine is made with an emphasis on aromatic purity and controlled extraction, ensuring the structure remains refined and the fruit shines through. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks, after which the wine is aged in oak barrels. The wood is deliberately used to enhance the wine's length and texture without shifting its character towards "wood-driven." In 2018, this resulted in a style with a remarkably smooth mouthfeel, plenty of tension, and an elegant, long finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon – Saint-Estèphe
The basis of the blend, 54%, and responsible for structure, freshness and ageing potential.
Merlot – Saint-Estèphe
37% Merlot gives roundness and juiciness, making the wine appear open and inviting even in its youth.
Cabernet Franc – Saint-Estèphe
6% Cabernet Franc adds spice and aromatic lift, giving the wine extra tension.
Petit Verdot – Saint-Estèphe
3% Petit Verdot provides extra colour, grip and a subtle, dark depth to the blend.
