Tasting Notes
Vinous 92/100
The 2001 Cos d’Estournel has long been one of the best wines from this period. It has a well-defined bouquet with more red than black fruit, vivid scents of raspberry and wild strawberry, just a hint of desiccated orange peel and humidor. The palate is medium-bodied with impressive structure, the fruit profile veering more towards black with that telltale meat juice/tobacco notes surfacing towards the delineated and focused finish. As I have commented previously, there is a sense of symmetry that means some will prefer it to the millennial Cos d’Estournel. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical in London.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035
Robert Parker 94
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.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033
JancisRobinson.com 16.5
Very dark. Very dry. Chewy and with not that much obvious fruit. Lots of acidity. Very angular and dry – typical of St-Estèphe perhaps? Time may be needed for it to show its potential.
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025