Château Cos Labory 2016, Saint-Estèphe 5° Grand Cru Classé - Parker 92

Winemaker and Vineyard: The terroir of Cos Labory, positioned on the deep gravel plateau of Cos Hill with its clays and limestone base, benefits from the proximity to the Gironde estuary and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, which moderate weather extremes. The 35-hectare vineyard consists of several plots, three of which form the historic heart at the top of the plateau, with the oldest vines giving birth to the Grand Vin, Château Cos Labory. On average, the 38-year-old vineyard is planted with half Cabernet Sauvignon, a third Merlot, and a small proportion of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Tasting: Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cos Labory opens with cassis, plums and herbs with notions of black soil and pencil lead. The medium-bodied palate is elegant and fresh with fine-grained tannins and nice purity, finishing long. robertparker.com (30.11.2018)

Service: Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany quails with grapes and cognac.