The 2018 Cos d'Estournel is an impressive Bordeaux blend from the St Estèphe region in France. This vintage comprises 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, with the wine aged in 50% new oak. It is a robust red wine with an alcohol content of 14.5%.

James Suckling awarded this wine an excellent score of 98, praising its “blackcurrant, cherry, berry and fresh cloves” and highlighting its “creamy and layered” texture. He notes that it has integrated tannins and a finish of “tar and licorice,” suggesting it will be best enjoyed after 2027 (jamessuckling.com).

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate also rated it a 98, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown describing it as a “very impressive behemoth” with a deep purple-black color. The wine reveals complex aromas of “crème de cassis, stewed plums, wild blueberries,” and more, and she forecasts that it will age well for 40 years or beyond (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate).

Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com shares similar enthusiasm, giving it a 98 score. He describes the wine as “deep and dark” with notes of “flowers, licorice, 5 spice, currants, blackberries, orange rind, smoke and cigar wrapper.” He mentions the wine’s “vibrancy” and “expansive finish” (TheWineCellarInsider.com).

Decanter and Jane Anson both rated the wine at 97, with Anson calling it the “wine of the 2018 vintage in St Estèphe.” She appreciates its “complexity and power,” noting flavors of “damson, fig, cassis and blackberry fruits” (janeanson.com).

This vintage of Cos d’Estournel is characterized by its powerful structure, rich flavors, and potential for long-term aging, making it a standout in the 2018 Bordeaux offerings.