1990 Château Cos d'Estournel

CELLAR TREASURES - These are wines from the private cellars of our well-known clients. They are often iconic wines. The certainty we have here is that the wine has been stored in a (temperature-controlled) cellar and is now physically in our climate-controlled warehouse. Wine is a natural product, and how it has developed over the years is unknown. We always take 360-degree photos of these wines so you can inspect the condition of the bottle, label, and even the bottle. Feel free to stop by if you'd like to inspect the bottle yourself. In many cases, you might be seriously surprised, but it's also possible that the wine has seen better days or has already gone further afield. These wines are ideal for collecting or a special vertical tasting.

The former owner and namesake, Louis Gaspard d'Estournel, was known as the Maharaja of Saint-Estèphe. He decorated the château in Indian style, threw lavish parties, and lived beyond his means. In 1852, he was completely destitute and had to sell his estate. He died a year later. Cos d'Estournel is perhaps the château with the most modern and advanced winemaking technology. From harvest to aging in the bottles, everything is meticulously monitored and carried out with the utmost care. For example, they managed to create a vinification process in which the wine is transported without pumps. All operations are carried out by gravity. In 1855, the château was awarded 2nd Grand Cru Classé status.

1990 was one of those years when everything clicked in Saint-Estèphe. Warm, dry, with just the right amount of rain at the right time. For Château Cos d'Estournel, this meant a harvest of exceptional quality. And you can taste it, even now—or perhaps especially now.

This wine is now 35 years old. Rich, full-bodied, and with that typical Saint-Estèphe structure: powerful, but never heavy. The blend consists largely of Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot playing a supporting role. What you get: dried blackcurrants, graphite, leather, truffle, and a hint of exotic spices that always makes Cos so recognizable.

The tannins are beautifully rounded, and the acidity is fresh enough to keep everything balanced. Not a heavy, dense wine, but a wine with layers and finesse. Perfect for drinking now, but it still has plenty of life left. Enjoy it with a nice piece of lamb or a truffle risotto.

Bordeaux 1990: a legendary vintage

Many years in Bordeaux are met with debate. Was it too wet, too hot, or harvested too early? Not 1990. That year is often mentioned in the same breath as 1982 and 2000. Especially on the Left Bank, where Cabernet dominates, countless wines have been made that can last for decades. Cos d'Estournel is certainly one of them.

The summer was warm, and the grapes ripened perfectly. But what makes this year truly special is that it didn't produce bloated or overripe wines. The best wines from 1990 are powerful, yes, but also harmonious. This is certainly true of Cos, which always seeks a balance between structure and elegance.

What you taste in this wine is tranquility. No more bouncy, but a wide-open aroma and flavor that can be explored at your leisure. Ideal for a long evening at the table or as the end of a special day.

what makes cos d'estournel so unique?

Château Cos d'Estournel is located on the outskirts of Saint-Estèphe, just above Pauillac. Its vineyards are almost literally adjacent to those of Lafite. Yet, Cos is a completely different story. More Merlot in the blend, a slightly softer structure, and always that hint of oriental spices.

Incidentally, 'cos' means hill, and that location is important. The estate is situated on one of the highest spots in the Médoc, overlooking the Gironde. This not only provides coolness but also perfect drainage and sun exposure. Ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon.

What further distinguishes Cos is its style. Completely classic Bordeaux, yet never heavy or austere. Even in its youth, Cos is often more approachable than its neighbors in Saint-Estèphe. And once matured, it develops that characteristic combination of depth and softness. Exactly what you look for in an older Bordeaux.

tasting an aged Bordeaux: what can you expect?

If you're used to young wines, a 1990 Cos d'Estournel is a completely different experience. No exuberant fruit or harsh tannins here. What you do get: aromas of cigar boxes, cedarwood, leather, wet forest floor, and sometimes a hint of black tea. On the palate, it's soft, round, and has a long finish.

Decanting is recommended, but proceed with caution. Half an hour in a carafe is often enough to aerate the wine. Be mindful of sediment: as with many old wines, there may be some residue. This isn't a problem, but do filter it out.

And remember: mature wines aren't about power, but about subtlety. The Cos 1990 is a wonderful example. A wine to be silent, not to impress.

Would you like to order château cos d'estournel 1990 online?

At Grandcruwijnen, this bottle is stored safely and coolly in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. Order online, and we'll ensure careful delivery. Prefer to pick it up yourself? That's also possible – and you'll receive an immediate discount if you select "Pick up" at checkout.