1991 Cos d'Estournel
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Tasting notes
The 1991 Cos d’Estournel is a vintage that hitherto have never tasted. Perverse as it sounds, I actually prefer the aromatics of the 1991 to the 1995! There are melted tar, red berry fruit, kirsch, cloves and a touch of coca that you would never guess it derives from the derided 1991 vintage. The palate is medium-bodied and a little raw on the entry. Yes, there are signs of hardness with respect to the tannin and a hole where the fruit should be towards the finish. Yet it remains a thoroughly enjoyable Saint-Estèphe and will appeal to those with a penchant for classic Claret that overcame the odds. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical at the property.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Cos d'Estournel's 1991 (about 50% of the harvest was declassified) is one of the wines to buy given its relatively low price and fine quality. It displays a dark ruby color, and a big, rich nose of cassis fruit married intelligently with spicy new oak. Offering surprising fatness and fleshiness, fine length, and a sweet, creamy texture, it should drink well for at least a decade.
One of the best wines of the vintage. Well focused, with lots of chunky fruit. The vanilla, tobacco and chocolate flavors go on and on. Delicious now. James Suckling, Wine Spectator 1994
Cos d'Estournel's 1991 (about 50% of the harvest was declassified) is one of the wines to buy given its relatively low price and fine quality. It displays a dark ruby color, and a big, rich nose of cassis fruit married intelligently with spicy new oak. Offering surprising fatness and fleshiness, fine length, and a sweet, creamy texture, it should drink well for at least a decade. Feb 1994, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Louis Gaspard d’Estournel inherited Cos and Pomys in 1791, founding Cos d’Estournel in 1811, investing significantly in the property and expanding the estate from 14 to 45 hectares. The estate rapidly rose to prominence and the wines were exported around the world.