2004 Cos Labory

It is good to see this estate, which is trapped in the shadows of its across-the-street neighbor, Cos d’Estournel, begin to fashion better and better wines. Soft, sweet tannins and loads of ripe, opulent black currant fruit intermixed with smoke and dried herb characteristics are found in the 2004 Cos Labory. This forward, evolved, medium-bodied effort should drink well for 10-12+ years. It is a very pretty sleeper of the vintage.

Very deep and dark with lots of ripenes and density. A more classical St-Estèphe than Lafon-Rochet or Ormes de Pez. Needs time but lots there. (JR)

(a 63/37 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot) Deep medium ruby. Blackberry, bitter chocolate and menthol on the rather extractive nose. Brooding, tough, medicinal St. Estephe in a somewhat rustic style. Shows good flavor intensity but needs more sweetness. Finishes with tough tannins that reach the front teeth.