2023 Cos Labory

The 2023 Cos Labory is the first vintage made by Cos d'Estournel Technical Director Dominique Arangoïts. A big, broad-shouldered wine, Cos Labory is more about virile power than finesse. Dark-toned fruit, gravel, incense, licorice and bittersweet chocolate are front and center. The larger grain of the tannin vis-à-vis Cos d'Estournel is impossible to miss.

The 2023 Cos Labory, the debut vintage under Michel Reybier's ownership (of neighbor Cos d'Estournel), has a relatively light nose with blackberry and tobacco scents, just missing the complexity of its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip, a little pinched toward the finish that feels just a bit conservative and short. So-so. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

The first vintage under the ownership of the Cos D’Estournel team, the 2023 Château Cos Labory is based on 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot, raised in 30% new French oak, which is reduced from past vintages. It's another incredibly successful 2023 that has red and black plums, graphite, spring flowers, and spicy aromatics as well as medium to full-bodied richness. Balanced and concentrated, with integrated, ripe tannins, this absolutely charming 2023 will benefit from just a few years of bottle age.