Les Pagodes de Cos 2003

Even the second wine, the 2003 Les Pagodes de Cos (an equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits complex notes of coffee beans, white chocolate, black currant and spice box in a full-bodied, juicy, opulent, round, stunning style. Drinking beautifully at present, it should keep for another 4-6 years. Drink 2014-2020

This may well turn out to be an outstanding effort and certainly a noteworthy purchase. Notes of licorice, charcoal smoke, and cassis jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, plump, fleshy wine that shows wonderful sweetness, a seductive texture, and a lush, heady finish. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.

Dark glowing ruby. Quite lightweight but sprightly and not too marked by 2003's shortcomings. A little alcoholic on the finish but there is a lot of pleasure here. This is surely a first growth's second wine? Slightly dry tannins on the end. (Average group score: 15.2)

The 2003 Pagodes de Cos is a perfect reflection of all that is good about the 2003 vintage. Bright, ripe (yet not overdone), red fruit in character yet with a broody, dark underbelly of spice and tannin. This is absolutely perfect for drinking now, but will last for another 3 to 5 years should you be able to resist it.