Cos D`Estournel 1989

The 1989 Cos d’Estournel has a deep garnet core with some bricking on the rim. On the nose, it shows exactly the same as before, offering a gorgeous mélange of mulberry, rust, fennel and light garrigue notes, very well defined and even a little rustic in style. The aromatics have aged better than the medium-bodied palate, which presents a fine bead of acidity but exhibits drying tannins and some hardness on the tobacco and hickory finish. Personally, I would broach bottles sooner rather than later, though large formats should still drink well. Tasted from an ex-cellar bottle at the château. - Neil Martin - The 1989 Cos d’Estournel is certainly showing more maturity on the rim compared to the 1990. Ten years ago I remember the aromatics being very attractive and yet, they appear to have faded in recent years with autumn leaf, bay leaf and cigar box aromas. The bouquet lacks vigor and charm. The palate is well balanced with gritty tannin, slightly bitter in style and missing the flesh of the 1990, showing some attenuation towards the finish. It is certainly not even in the same league as the 1989 Montrose. I suggest that bottles are best consumed sooner rather than later. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical at the property. - The 1989 Cos d’Estournel is certainly showing more maturity on the rim compared to the 1990. Ten years ago I remember the aromatics being very attractive and yet, they appear to have faded in recent years with autumn leaf, bay leaf and cigar box aromas. The bouquet lacks vigor and charm. The palate is well balanced with gritty tannin, slightly bitter in style and missing the flesh of the 1990, showing some attenuation towards the finish. It is certainly not even in the same league as the 1989 Montrose. I suggest that bottles are best consumed sooner rather than later. Tasted at the Cos d’Estournel vertical at the property.