Les Pagodes de Cos, A Taste of Bordeaux's Elegance
Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Saint-Estèphe
by Château Cos d'Estournel
Earliest delivery: November 10, 2025.
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Les Pagodes de Cos is not just a second wine; it’s an invitation to explore the storied soils of Château Cos d’Estournel in Saint-Estèphe. Crafted with precision, this wine embodies the richness and tradition of Bordeaux, making it a cherished find for both novice wine lovers and seasoned collectors.
Discover the Legacy of Les Pagodes de Cos
Les Pagodes de Cos is a name that echoes through the famed vineyards of the Bordeaux region, representing the prestigious second wine offering from Château Cos d’Estournel. Situated in the Saint-Estèphe appellation, this wine draws you into a world where historic methods and modern viticulture combine harmoniously to unveil wines of remarkable character and value.
Historical Roots and Architectural Marvel
The founding of Château Cos d’Estournel in 1811 by Louis Gaspard Lacoste de Maniban, known as the “Maharaja of St-Estèphe,” marked a transformative moment in the history of Bordeaux wine production. He pioneered the global reach of Bordeaux wines, particularly favoring exotic markets like India. The estate’s iconic architecture, reflective of oriental influences with its pagoda turrets, inspired the naming of its second wine, Les Pagodes de Cos.
Unique Terroir and Meticulous Craftsmanship
The estate spans 91 hectares, with soils composed of gravelly peaks and clay-limestone eastern slopes, ideal for nurturing Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines. The grapes that form Les Pagodes de Cos are grown with artisanal care, characterized by a high planting density and tended by vineyard workers dedicated to preserving the purity and integrity of each vine.
Innovation in Winemaking
Les Pagodes de Cos benefits from a gravity-flow cellar, a technical innovation that allows gentle handling during winemaking, preserving the fruit’s natural freshness. The handpicked grapes are fermented under controlled conditions to highlight their terroir and are aged in French oak barrels.
A Taste of Saint-Estèphe in Every Glass
This wine is celebrated for its balanced approach, offering a pronounced aroma of blackcurrant, spice, and cassis. The blend, rich in Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, sometimes includes Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot to accentuate its complexity and charm. Each vintage narrates a different chapter of its character—vibrant and sumptuous in 2018, elegant with red fruit tones in 2021.
Food Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Les Pagodes de Cos pairs superbly with hearty samples such as roasted meats, lamb, and rich stews. Its structure complements heavy cheeses and mushroom delicacies alike. To experience its full aromatic breadth, serve at 16 to 18°C and consider decanting younger vintages to allow the bouquet to unfold.
Aging and Appreciation
Though crafted to delight when young, Les Pagodes de Cos offers the potential for aging, gaining complexity over a decade. Its reputation as an exceptional second wine is sustained by consistently strong critical acclaim, making it a poignant choice for collectors and those eager to taste Bordeaux’s legacy.
Concluding with Class
Whether you’re exploring Bordeaux or have your eyes set on expanding your wine collection, Les Pagodes de Cos stands as a testament to quality, history, and delightful complexity, representing the legendary traditions and terroir of Château Cos d’Estournel in every bottle.
