2014 Cos Labory
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Bottle weight empty 550 g. From a good vintage for St-Estèphe, according to buyer Tim Sykes MW. The château was recently bought by Cos d’Estournel. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 20 days on skins. Aged in oak barrels for 15 months, total SO 2 88 mg/l, free SO 2 21 mg/l. Deep garnet. Sweet and spicy on the nose with still so much dark fruit. Firm, tannic on the palate but with classic St-Estèphe character. Fresh, dry and still very youthful. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Tim Atkin MW
Decanter
More reviews and scores
In the running for the most under the radar of all 1855 estates, this showcases the quality of the vintage. You'll find plenty of black fruit, firm tannins that are a little underripe but add backbond to the wine, and have an easy charm. In the Haut Marbuzet school of characterful, enjoyable St Estèphe, with clear ageing potential. 50% new oak, harvest September 25 to October 13.
40% Merlot, 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc . Tasted blind. Mid crimson. Sweet and mild and fine but not the most thrilling. Just does what’s needed – no more. (JR)
The 2014 Cos-Labory has a slightly pinched bouquet at first, gradually opening with blackberry and briary scents, just a touch of graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin, sappy black fruit laced with graphite and black pepper, quite harmonious with a crisp and poised, satisfying finish. Excellent, traditional Saint Estèphe and perhaps one of the best Cos-Labory I have tasted thus far. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
About the producer
Louis Gaspard d’Estournel purchased Cos Labory in 1847 and in tribute to this history, the Reybier family (owners of Cos d’Estournel today) acquired the Saint-Estèphe estate and its 35 hectares of vines in 2023.