- “This is a long hauler,” says Jane Anson.
- The wine has been released internationally at £1,800 (12×75).
- The 100-point 2016 vintage looks compelling.
The 2020 Cos d’Estournel has been released for €150 per bottle ex-négociant, up 36.4% on the 2019 release.
The wine is being offered by the international trade for £1,800 per 12×75, 31.6% more than the current Market Price of the 2019.
The 2020 will be bottled in a unique, black and gold engraved bottle to mark the 20th anniversary of the Second Growth’s acquisition by Michel Reybier.
Volumes released are reportedly down 25% on last year.
Critical opinion
“This is a finely crafted, very succinct Cos d’Estournel that may well be hiding something up its sleeve for after bottling, and I suspect it will gain more spine during its barrel aging,” noted Neal Martin (Vinous) who scored it 95-97. He also complimented its “freshness” and “a sense of light”.
Antonio Galloni awarded 94-96 points, adding that “the 2020 is a gorgeous wine from a very unusual year”.
Jane Anson (Decanter) gave it 97-points, and said that its “sombre and serious right now, particularly for an estate that is known for its exuberance”.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW (The Wine Advocate) gave it 96-98 and James Suckling 97-98.
Jeb Dunnuck rated it 95-97+, noting that it is “is a brilliant example of the vintage”.
Fair Value
Prices for Cos d’Estournel show close correlation to Wine Advocate critic scores. With 31.6% increase on last year, the 2020 is positioned above the Fair Value line.
However, its commemorative bottling and reduced volumes might add to its allure. The performance of special bottles on the secondary market was discussed in detail here.
Previous vintages that look compelling include the 100-point 2016, which is available for £1,400 per case.
Buyers might also wish to consider the 2014 (NM 96), available for £1,000.
Another good value option is last year’s release, which boasts 98+ points from Martin and costs 24% less than the 2020.
Our Bordeaux En Primeur 2020 page contains everything you need to know about this year’s campaign. You can also sign up for our daily En Primeur email alerts using the form below.
