Tasting Notes
Vinous 91
The 2009 is a Saint-Estephe lauded in some quarters upon release, anointed with perfect scores, albeit not from myself. From my introduction in barrel with then estate manager, Jean-Guillaume Prats, the 2009 felt over-endowed, a wine predesigned to flutter its lashes during en primeur, one that equated sheer power with quality. I last drank this vintage six years ago. It remains decadent and ostentatious on the nose, rich and almost over-generous with creme de cassis and iodine scents. It comes across more Napa than Bordeaux, and contentiously, perhaps that was the intention? Likewise, the palate is decked out with lush and slightly overripe black fruit, relatively low acidity and plenty of weight but not much in the way of finesse. Admittedly, I don’t find the wine unenjoyable, and my score should reflect that. You have to admire its hedonism, and if that s your bag, you ll love it. But the 2009 harks back to a period when even some of the Medoc s grandest chateaux seemed to follow a recipe, when more was always more.
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2040
JancisRobinson.com 16.5
This was always a controversial wine, seen by many as pushing ripeness and extraction too far. Deep blackish crimson. Less concentrated than the Montrose 2009 but with intense fragrance. On the palate it really opens out but the flavour is decidedly medicinal. A bit jagged and tough in terms of impact and obviously very extracted. (JR)
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2038
Robert Parker 100
Deep garnet colored, the 2009 Cos d’Estournel features a myriad of wonderfully intense notes, including blackcurrant pastilles, redcurrant jelly, kirsch and blueberry compote with hints of rose hip tea, sauteed herbs, underbrush, pencil shavings and Indian spices. Full-bodied, rich and opulently fruited in the mouth, it has beautifully plush tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and very spicy.
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2065
