A traditional Saint-Estèphe winery with a clear identity
Château Cos Labory is one of the most distinctive estates in the Saint-Estèphe appellation and has been a member of the Cinquièmes Crus Classés since the 1855 classification. Although it often takes a backseat to its famous neighbors like Château Cos d'Estournel, the estate possesses a distinctive style. Powerful, structured, and authentic, its wines reflect the terroir of the northernmost Médoc appellation. For connoisseurs, Cos Labory offers consistent quality and excellent value, making it a hidden gem for collectors.
The name "Cos" refers to a stony hill in Old Gascon – and the estate is situated precisely on one. Its proximity to Cos d'Estournel explains the similarities in minerality and structure of the wines. The second part of the name, "Labory," refers to François Labory, who significantly influenced the estate in the 18th century. After a turbulent history of ownership spanning almost two centuries, Château Cos Labory came into the hands of the Audoy family in 1959. This marked a crucial turning point: with foresight and dedication, the family brought the estate out of obscurity and into renewed recognition.
Today, the estate comprises nearly 18 hectares of vineyards on the classic gravel soils of the Médoc. These soils – deep gravel over calcareous clay – offer ideal conditions for the ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives particularly well here. The combination of good drainage, heat retention, and nutrient-poor soils ensures low yields but high quality. The average age of the vines is around 40 years, which further enhances the complexity and concentration of the wines.
The grape variety distribution is typical for Saint-Estèphe: approximately 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. This blend produces wines that combine power and elegance. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure and long-lasting tannins, while Merlot contributes richness and harmony. Cabernet Franc adds spice and aromatic depth.
In the cellar, Château Cos Labory relies on classic yet precise vinification. Fermentation takes place under temperature control, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 12 to 15 months, with approximately 40% of the barrels being new. This aging process adds complexity without masking the wine's natural freshness and character. The result is typical Saint-Estèphe wines: powerful, mineral, structured, and exceptionally age-worthy.
Over the past few decades, the winery has made remarkable progress. Vintages such as 1982, 1996, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2016, and 2019 impressively demonstrate that Cos Labory now ranks among the top-tier, attractively priced Grand Crus. Particularly well-aged bottles reveal just how well the wine can age – with deep, earthy, and spicy nuances that showcase the terroir at its finest.
For collectors and investors, Château Cos Labory offers a rare opportunity: Discover selected vintages of this characterful Saint-Estèphe wine now and expand your collection with an underrated Grand Cru rarity that offers long-term potential and true authenticity.
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