CHATEAU COS LABORY
Château Cos Labory is a historic Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru Classé) estate in Saint-Estèphe, classified in the renowned 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Located on the famous gravel hill of Cos in the northern Médoc, the château produces classic Left Bank Bordeaux characterised by Cabernet-driven structure, dark fruit and excellent ageing potential. Its combination of classified-growth heritage and distinctive Saint-Estèphe terroir makes Cos Labory an appealing name for collectors of traditional Bordeaux.
The estate occupies vineyards on the gravelly slopes of Saint-Estèphe, neighbouring some of the appellation's most celebrated properties. Deep Garonne gravel over clay and limestone-influenced subsoils provides excellent drainage while allowing the vines access to moisture during dry periods. The nearby Gironde estuary moderates temperatures and helps create favourable conditions for gradual, balanced ripening.
Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone of Château Cos Labory, supported primarily by Merlot and smaller plantings of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure, cassis character and longevity, while Merlot adds richness and supple fruit. The supporting varieties contribute perfume, spice and additional complexity to the finished blend.
The wines typically display aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry and plum, accompanied by cedar, graphite, tobacco, violet and savoury spice. Firm yet increasingly polished tannins reflect the classic character of Saint-Estèphe, while fresh acidity provides balance and supports extended bottle ageing. Mature examples can develop attractive notes of leather, forest floor, cigar box and earthy complexity.
Careful vineyard management, selective harvesting and parcel-by-parcel vinification allow the individual characteristics of each vineyard block to be preserved. Maturation in French oak adds texture and complexity while maintaining the structured, terroir-focused personality expected from fine Médoc Cabernet Sauvignon.
In 2023, Château Cos Labory was acquired by Michel Reybier, owner of neighbouring Château Cos d'Estournel, bringing the two historic estates on the Cos hill under common ownership. Cos Labory nevertheless remains a distinct classified-growth property, with its own vineyards and identity.
Shop Château Cos Labory wines online at Wine More Cellars Australia. Discover Fifth Growth Saint-Estèphe, Cabernet Sauvignon and collectible Left Bank Bordeaux with Australia-wide shipping.
