Cos d'Estournel 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1998

The 1998 Cos d’Estournel was picked from 22 September to 6 October and consists of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Merlot. Apparently the property was very content with the merlot at the time. It has a modest bouquet that to be frank is surpassed by the 1988 at the moment, the older vintage possessing more complexity and charm. This is surprisingly straight-laced with notes of blackberry, briars, espresso and tobacco. It is nicely defined - it just needs a little more intensity and flair. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin, savoury in style, a fine bead of acidity with white pepper and touches of cooked meat, the merlot certainly defining the style on the finish. Yet perhaps that means that it does not quite have the same longevity as the 1988? Tasted at the château.

• Drinking Window: 2018 - 2030
• Reviewer Name: Neal Martin
• Review Date: May 2018