Prats leaves Cos d'Estournel

It was in a letter addressed to the traders that Michel Reybier, the owner of Cos d'Estournel, announced that Prats was launching "a new professional challenge", adding: "I would like to congratulate him and the whole team of Cos d'Estournel. 'Estournel for the very good work over the years, and to wish him every success. »

The news fell on October 15, making more than one surprised, although it seems that the decision belongs to Prats rather than Reybier.

Apparently, Prats will stay at the castle until the end of January before leaving for another estate, the name of which is not yet known.

The Drinks Business thinks he might be on his way to South Africa, where his father Bruno and Hubert de Boüard of Château Angélus are working on a project in the Constantia vineyard.

Christophe Ranger, a collaborator of Reybier, is given great favorite to the succession of Prats.

Prats has managed the estate since 2001 and has overseen the continued rise of Cos d'Estournel over the past decade, both in fame and price.

The 2009 vintage caused a stir when it came out at an exceptionally high price that divided the industry. Jancis Robinson MW was not at all convinced by its high alcohol content and high concentration, although it is one of Robert Parker's favorite wines for this vintage, which he included in the “Magical 20”, a selection made for a public tasting in Hong Kong last year.

This wine then experienced a considerable resurgence of interest. However, the high price of the 2011 vintage was less successful both on the market and with collectors, many of whom took a dim view of the attempt to reposition the château. by surprise although it is thought that it was Prats' choice rather than that of Reybier.

Source: Rupert Millar
Thedrinksbusiness.com
October 16, 2012