Cos d'Estournel 2001

Chateau Cos d'Estournel 2001 is a deep ruby color with a nose of blackcurrant, cassis, and spicy vanilla. The palate is full-bodied and rich with flavors of black cherry, plum, and licorice, followed by notes of espresso and dark chocolate. The tannins are firm yet smooth, leading to a long and lingering finish with hints of smoke and cedar. This wine has aged beautifully and is drinking exceptionally well now, but can continue to age for another decade or more. It would pair wonderfully with rich and savory dishes such as roasted lamb or beef.

Robert Parker - 94 Points

"The 2001 Cos d'Estournel is blended of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Merlot—a very high percentage of Merlot in this vintage and a very late harvest, which started on October 1st. Deep garnet in color, the nose is singing with savory notes of smoked meats, tapenade, bay leaves and beef drippings with a core of plum preserves, redcurrant jelly, dried cherries and baked blackcurrants with wafts of peppermint tea and dried roses. Medium-bodied, the palate practically tingles with vibrant dried herbs, red fruit preserves and minty notes, structured with firm, finely grained tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and minerally."

Antonio Galloni - 93 Points

"The 2001 Cos d’Estournel has a fresher nose than the 2000, showing more focus and vigor and delivering black cherries mixed with fig, blood orange and light cigar box aromas. Side by side, this is certainly more youthful. The palate is well balanced with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, and fine grip and freshness. This is still quite tight at 20 years old and would certainly benefit from decanting. Blood orange and a light sprinkling of white pepper appear toward the finish. In this face-off, I have a preference for the 2001 over the 2000."