Cos d'Estournel

History of the Estate

The Maharajah of Saint-Estèphe

In 1791,Louis Gaspard d'Estournelinherited a property in the commune of Cos, comprising 14 hectares of vineyards. Convinced that this hillside held exceptional terroir, the audacious Marquis d'Estournel spent a fortune expanding his vineyard. By 1852, he owned 45 hectares of vines, spread across three crus:Cos d'Estournel, Cos LaboryAndPomys.

Beyond the vineyard's progress, Louis Gaspard's pursuit of excellence drives technical improvements and perpetual innovation. The life of the Domaine is thus punctuated by numerous tests and trials. Examples include:

• trials of new grape varieties
• the unprecedented use of glass stoppers

This curious man, open to the world around him, would be nicknamed “The Maharajah of Saint-EstèphePassionate about the Orient, he adorned his castle with numerous chinoiserie. He was also the first to sell winesreturn from India", from barrels that have made a round trip to Bombay or Calcutta.

Michel Reybier

It's Cos or nothing.

The physical and financial involvement ofMarquis d'EstournelHowever, this would reach its limits. In 1852, ill and in debt, he sold his properties to a London banker. He would ultimately die a few months later, barely two years before his estate was officially recognized. Indeed, in 1855, the imperial classification would grant theChâteau Cos d'Estournelthe rank of 2nd Grand Cru Classé. The property, thus awarded, would change hands three times. Finally, in the year 2000, the discreetMichel ReybierCompletely captivated by the history and originality of this unique estate, he acquired it. “It will be Cos or nothing,” he would repeat. Following in the founder's footsteps, Michel Reybier cultivates the estate's duality, balancing tradition and innovation. He will also nurture the unique spirit of this Château, not as an end in itself, but as a means to achieve perfection in winemaking.

Second Growth Classified

The best for ambition

Upon arrivalMichel ReybierAt the helm of the estate, significant strategic decisions are being implemented. The main building is being completely renovated, and a brand-new, entirely gravity-flow winery is being constructed. Its 72 truncated conical stainless steel tanks allow for meticulous plot-by-plot vinification, with the utmost respect for the product. These investments are commensurate with the exceptional terroir of this gem of a winery.Saint-EstèpheThe 91 hectares ofCabernet-Sauvignon(60%) and ofMerlot(40%) take root in deep gravelly soil, benefiting from the same climate as its prestigious neighborChâteau Lafite RothschildThe estate currently offers a range of four wines. These include:

• the vintageCos d'Estournela fascinating, opulent and voluptuous wine
• his second winePagodas of Kosdescribed as radiant, silky and charming.
• a version of theCos d'Estournel in white,
• a smaller wine, very fruityGoulée by Cos d'Estournel.