2016 Chateau Cos d'Estournel, Saint-Estephe, France, 750mL, (100 points)

The 2016 Château Cos d'Estournel is a masterfully structured and extravagant Saint-Estèphe, showcasing an iron fist in a velvet glove. A blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, it delivers deep, dense black fruit, crème de cassis, sandalwood, and exotic spice alongside floral and mineral nuances. Its full-bodied richness is seamlessly balanced by refined, pixelated tannins, lending it both power and elegance. Vibrant and energetic on the palate, the long, complex finish highlights mocha, incense, and crushed stones, making this a truly magical vintage. Though already remarkable, it will continue to evolve beautifully for 4–5 decades.