2003 heatwave 'created exceptional Cos d'Estournel'
While 2009 is being touted as one of the best years for Bordeaux reds in recent memory, one commentator has reminded buyers that the scorching summer of 2003 also produced some extremely fine wines.
Excessive heat is not always good news for winemakers, but the 2003 heatwave created one of the best ever wines from chateau Montrose, earning a rare 100-point score from Robert Parker, This Is Money reports.
"This was all the more impressive because most other Bordeaux chateaux only mustered below-par wine, the quality suffering from a rough berry aftertaste caused by jammy, over-cooked fruit," added the website's Dan Hyde.
Meanwhile, the 2003 Cos d'Estournel, a blend of 68 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 per cent Merlot and two per cent Cabernet Franc, fared particularly well with a 98-point rating from Robert Parker.
The expert, widely regarded as the world's foremost wine critic, is due to give his scores for the 2009 Bordeaux vintage on Tuesday (April 27th).