Cos d’Estournel 2ème Cru Classé, Saint-Estephe, 2017

The 2017 Cos d'Estournel requires patience to reveal itself. The nose, initially closed and brooding, gradually releases notes of classic cassis, ripe plum, cedar, tar, graphite, and bay leaf, and as it opens further, the perfumes deepen into preserved plum, boysenberry, and blackcurrant pastille with hints of Indian spice, menthol, and lilac. The palate is medium to full-bodied, the tannins firm and grainy, the structure tightly wound around dense blue and black fruit. A wine of considered ambition that will reward those who give it time and space.