Pagodes de Cos is the esteemed second wine of Château Cos d'Estournel, a Deuxième Cru Classé estate renowned for its distinctive Asian-inspired architecture and exceptional terroir in Saint-Estèphe. Sourced from younger vines and specific parcels within the estate's gravelly vineyards, Pagodes de Cos is crafted to offer an earlier-drinking expression of the property's signature style.
The 2017 vintage, while presenting challenges across Bordeaux, yielded wines of notable freshness and aromatic purity in Saint-Estèphe. This bottling typically features a blend with a higher proportion of Merlot than the Grand Vin, complementing the dominant Cabernet Sauvignon. The meticulous vinification and judicious oak ageing ensure a wine that embodies the power and structure typical of Saint-Estèphe, yet with an accessible charm and refined balance.
Tasting notes
The 2017 Pagodes de Cos presents a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it offers an aromatic tapestry of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, interwoven with subtle notes of tobacco leaf and a hint of graphite, characteristic of its Saint-Estèphe origins. The palate is medium-bodied and elegantly structured, revealing a core of dark fruit complemented by fine-grained tannins and a refreshing acidity.
The influence of the vintage is evident in its vibrant freshness and approachable profile, leading to a persistent finish marked by lingering fruit and a touch of spice. While enjoyable in its youth, this wine possesses the balance and integrity to evolve gracefully over the medium term.