2019 G d’Estournel, Medoc

This is really fresh and compact with wet-earth, blackberry and conifer character. It’s medium bodied, tight and focused. Solid.

92-93 points James Suckling

From the team behind Château Cos d’Estournel, G d’Estournel offers a more approachable window into one of Bordeaux’s most distinctive estates. Based in Saint Estèphe, Cos has long been known for its exotic flair and meticulous attention to detail, and that same philosophy flows through to this Médoc release, even at a more accessible level.

The 2019 vintage was excellent across Bordeaux, warm and generous, yet with enough freshness to keep things in balance. Here it shows as ripe blackcurrant and dark cherry, layered with plum and a touch of blueberry. There is a gentle lift of violet, along with classic Médoc notes of cedar, tobacco and a hint of graphite that adds structure and depth.

On the palate it is medium to full bodied, with fine, polished tannins giving shape to the fruit. The ripeness of the vintage comes through, but it is framed by a line of freshness that keeps everything controlled. Flavours move from dark fruit into more savoury territory, finishing with spice, cedar and a subtle earthy edge.

Winemaking reflects the precision of the Cos d’Estournel team, careful extraction and well judged oak that supports rather than dominates. The result is a wine that feels composed and complete, offering both immediate appeal and a clear sense of Bordeaux character.

This is made for classic pairings. Roast lamb, grilled steak, or slow cooked beef all work beautifully, and it also pairs well with hard cheeses where the tannins can cut through richness.

Drinking well now with a bit of air, it will continue to evolve over the next five to ten years, developing more complexity with notes of leather, cigar box and spice as the structure softens.