VIEUX CHÂTEAU CERTAN
2013 Pomerol
| Colour | Red |
| Origin | France, Bordeaux |
| Sub-district | Pomerol & Lalande de Pomerol |
| Village | Pomerol |
| ABV | 14% |
The weather wasn't with us', said Guillaume Thienpont, explaining that the Cabernet Franc was just not good enough this year. They have made only a thousand cases of Grand Vin, with two thirds of the crop going to the second wine. Perfumed floral and red fruit nose, palate smooth and light with a slight hardening of acidity. The signature silky elegance without the power and richness, and without the characteristic Cabernet Franc fruit flavours either. They really waited for as much ripeness as they could get, despite the pressure of the developing botrytis, because, as Guillaume put it, 'vegetal flavours are not acceptable these days', but then had to be very gentle with extraction. 2016-2021 Rating: 89 L&S (Apr 2014)
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Approximately 1,000 cases of the 2013 Vieux Chateau Certan (versus the normal 4,000 cases) were produced. Alexandre Thienpont told me that yields were 22 hectoliters per hectare, and the final blend was unusual in that it was 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The alcohol was a surprisingly lofty 13%. While charming, tasty and elegant, this wine does not possess the depth, fat or texture of a great vintage. The tropical September that spawned botrytis throughout Bordeaux vineyards had to be cut out, and the result was a ridiculously small crop that cost a fortune to produce, but will never sell for a high price since it is a good rather than exceptional wine. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. 2014-2021 Rating: 87-88 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate, www.RobertParker.com (Aug 2014)
(92% merlot and 8% cabernet franc): Bright ruby. Perfumed, very pure aromas of raspberry, blackcurrant and violet. Enters the mouth bright and fresh, with juicy small red and dark berry flavors complicated by hints of iron and cedar. The finish is long and a little austere. Another solid 2013 wine that is only missing the fruit and charm of the better vintages. Interestingly, while many in Bordeaux (Medoc estates included) are starting to increase their use of cabernet franc, even if only by small amounts, at VCC the percentage of this variety seems to be decreasing almost every year. Rating: 87-90 Ian d'Agata - Stephen Tanzer website (May 2014)
Merlot 92% Cabernet Franc 8%. Sweet fruited on the nose the palate starts with freshness a fragrant mix of red fruits and black cherry. There is depth in the middle ripe flavours generous and rich but towards the back it feels lighter with a strong red fruited finish. 2020-35. Rating: 91-94 Derek Smedley MW, www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk (May 2014)
Vieux Château Certan
Founded in the 16th century, the Vieux Chateau Certan has kept its name since 1745. In 1924 it was acquired by Georges Thienpont. Situated in the heart of Pomerol, this Château is the oldest cru of the appellation. Since its early days it has gained a reputation of being one of the rarest and most prestigious crus in the world. It is hailed for the exquisite finesse of its wines, the elegance of the chartreuse chateau surrounded by age-old trees, the order and quality of the vineyard – Vieux Château Certan inspires and fascinates wine connoisseurs around the world.
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RELATED PRODUCTS
2013 CHÂTEAU L'ÉGLISE CLINET Pomerol
Bordeaux France 14% Red
Cabernet Franc, Merlot.
Denis Durantou, always interesting to listen to, was keen to say that this year it was the good weather in July which made the wine ('Juillet à fait le moût'). 'Ripe grapes can be acid too. It's no use waiti...(read more)
L&S
2012 CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE Pomerol
Bordeaux France 13% Red
.
The 2012 La Conseillante takes some time to settle in the glass, gaining harmony after 10 minutes with scents of red cherry, sandalwood, freshly rolled tobacco and clove. This comes across as showier, more extravagant th...(read more)
Neal Martin, www.vinous.comORDER COLLECT
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