Cossart Gordon Bual 1978

Expected arrival, 8/2/2024

Cossart Gordon Bual 1978

Bottling Year: 2021

Cossart Gordon & Co. was established in 1745 and is the oldest company in the Madeira Wine trade. The family joined the Madeira Wine Company in 1958 and to this day, Cossart Gordon Madeiras are considered the very finest available.

These grapes came specifically from the area of Calheta, the warmest and sunniest area on the island of Madeira. They were harvested by hand in a good harvest in 1978, trodden on using the traditional wooden lagares and then aged for more than 40 years in the “Canteiro” system (in old oak casks supported on long wooden beams) in the warehouses of Madeira Wine Company, in Funchal and then later in Caniçal. The island of Madeira is of volcanic origin, with different types of soils in its different regions. In the area of Calheta, the vines grow between 100 and 300 meters in altitude, on deep, claysoils, with a medium content of organic matter, low in phosphorus, with a medium high level of potassium and very rich in calcium and magnesium. The vines are planted in the trellis and espaliers systems, with strong influence from the sun, wind and sea breeze, producing wines that are highly appreciated for their balance of acidity and sweetness. Only 1294 bottles were bottled.

Tasting Notes
Clear bright mahogany color with a golden-green hue. Very characteristic exuberant bouquet, with notes of spice, tobacco, balsam and cedar type exotic woods. In the mouth it is very powerful, medium sweet, but with a very fresh, intense and long finnish with hints of a vanilla like spice.

Historical Context:
Cossart Gordon & Co., established in 1745, is part of the Madeira Wine Company, which also includes other prestigious Madeira producers like Blandy’s and Leacock’s. Cossart Gordon is renowned for its high-quality Madeira wines, and the Bual 1978 is a testament to the company’s dedication to traditional winemaking techniques and excellence.

Conclusion:
Cossart Gordon Bual 1978 is a remarkable vintage Madeira that offers a rich, complex drinking experience. Its well-balanced sweetness, combined with the depth of flavors developed over decades of aging, makes it a prized wine for collectors and connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or paired with a dessert or cheese course, this wine is sure to impress.

Wine Spectator 2022
94 /100 /100 cellar selection

Wine Enthusiast 2021
95 Points, Wine Enthusiast
“Sitting on an island in two 650-liter wood casks for 43 years was good for this wine. It offers intense richness and layers of fine toastiness. The wood shows alongside mature hints of fruit and nut flavors. Its medium sweetness is well balanced by the typically concentrated acidity. It’s now time to enjoy it, although the bottle will also stay in great condition for many years.”