2015 Chateau Pagodes de Cos d'Estournel - St. Estephe (750ml)

Pagodes de Cos is the second wine of Cos d’Estournel, the Second Growth famous for its pagoda towers looking across the border at Lafite. It comes from a dedicated terroir that has been set aside for it since the first release in 1994, with vines averaging 35 years old, which is rare for a second wine. The 2015 is a Merlot-led blend with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, and it drinks like a serious Saint-Estèphe in its own right. Juicy, enticing plum and berry on the nose with spice and a little chocolate, then a full, long palate with real focus and finesse. Antonio Galloni called it a very serious second wine for the vintage, noting black cherry, licorice, tobacco and menthol on a plush, enveloping frame. Ten years in and right in its window. Great with roast lamb, grilled ribeye or duck breast.