2014 Cos d'Estournel Blanc

The 2014 Cos d'Estournel Blanc has not built upon the "minimalist bouquet" as I described it during en primeur, and perhaps I was hoping it would develop a bit more personality. The palate is well balanced although the oak does impede a little on the entry. The varietal expression of the Sauvignon Blanc seems to be fighting against the oak regime, which makes me think that this would be better eschewing new wood entirely rather than the admittedly modest 15% of new oak? One to ponder.

The 2014 Cos d'Estournel Blanc is deep, pliant and super-expressive. In 2014, it is the wine's textural depth and resonance that stands out. The late harvest resulted in white grapes endowed with a magical combination of density, power and freshness. Although the blend is 66% Sauvignon Blanc and 34% Semillon, there are essentially no green or grassy notes to be found. Even with all of its intensity, the 2014 remains bright and finely cut throughout. Lemon oil, white flowers, mint and sage are laced into the beautifully textured finish. This is a very strong showing from Cos d'Estournel.

The 2014 Cos d'Estournel Blanc has not built upon the "minimalist bouquet" as I described it during en primeur, and perhaps I was hoping it would develop a bit more personality. The palate is well balanced although the oak does impede a little on the entry. The varietal expression of the Sauvignon Blanc seems to be fighting against the oak regime, which makes me think that this would be better eschewing new wood entirely rather than the admittedly modest 15% of new oak? One to ponder. Mar 2017, www.robertparker.com