Cos d'Estournel, Chateau
Summary
Cos d'Estournel, a Second Growth estate in Saint-Estèphe founded in 1811, operates 91 hectares of gravelly slopes planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, benefiting from the temperature-moderating effects of the nearby Gironde estuary. The estate combines traditional Bordeaux winemaking with modern precision through its gravity-flow winery, where plot-specific vinification in temperature-controlled vats and 18-month French oak aging maintain classical standards.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Cos d'Estournel was established in 1811 by Louis Gaspard d'Estournel, who acquired the original vineyard on the hill of Cos. The estate earned Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) status in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, cementing its position among St. Estèphe's leading properties. Michel Reybier acquired the château in 2000, initiating a comprehensive modernization program while maintaining the estate's historical integrity. Under the current leadership of CEO Aymeric de Gironde, Cos d'Estournel continues its tradition of innovation within classical Bordeaux frameworks.
Vineyards & Wines
The estate encompasses 91 hectares of vineyards in St. Estèphe, positioned on gravelly slopes that rise 15-20 meters above sea level. The vineyard composition reflects the classic Left Bank blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, with vines averaging 35-45 years of age. The terroir features a distinctive mix of deep gravel deposits over limestone bedrock, with clay subsoils providing crucial water regulation. The vineyard's proximity to the Gironde estuary creates a moderating effect on temperatures throughout the growing season.
Philosophy & Practice
The 2008 completion of a gravity-flow winery marked a significant advancement in Cos d'Estournel's winemaking capabilities. The facility utilizes 72 temperature-controlled wooden and concrete vats, allowing for precise plot-by-plot vinification. Grapes undergo optical sorting before fermentation, ensuring optimal berry selection. The grand vin ages for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 60% new oak integration. The estate maintains a strict plot-by-plot approach throughout the entire winemaking process, from harvest through to final blending.