Vieux Chateau Certan - Pomerol 2018 (750ml)
Price: $399.00
| Producer | Vieux Chateau Certan |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Subregion | Pomerol |
| Varietal | Bordeaux Blend |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Sku | 1005674 |
| Size | 750ml |
James Suckling: 99 Points
Blackberry and hint
Wine Advocate: 99+ Points
The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc weighing in with 14.4% alcohol and an IPT (total polyphenol index) of 77. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored the nose is locked down tight at this youthful stage requiring a lot of patient swirling to release a profound powerhouse of a perfume: preserved plums blueberry compote ripe black cherries and boysenberries leading to suggestions of Indian spices lilacs espresso and licorice plus a waft of sandalwood. The medium to full-bodied palate has an amazing sense of cohesiveness. There are no edges to the seamless flow of exquisitely fine-grained tannins and perfectly knit acidity beautifully framing the blue and black fruits which are at once elegant and also so so rich. It finishes with many slowly lapping waves of minerals and exotic spices which just go on and on. It is a wine that is simply put an experience not to be missed. Give it a good 6-8 years in the cellar and drink it over the next 30 years or more.
Vinous: 97+ Points
The 2018 Vieux Château Certan is delicate silky and understated just as it was in barrel. Inky blue/purplish berry fruit mint lavender spice and wild flowers all open in the glass. The 30% Cabernet Franc which is high for present-day standards adds tons of aromatic lift as well as freshness while bright saline-infused notes extend the finish. Fine tannins and mid-weight structure give the 2018 an air of finesse that is impossible to miss. If I had to bet on one 2018 that could very well surprise 10-20 years out it might very well be VCC. (Drink between 2026-2058)
Jeb Dunnuck: 96-98 Points
Liquid violets cassis blueberries and beautiful floral notes all emerge from the 2018 Vieux Château Certan which is deep profound and layered on the palate with ultra-fine tannins. Full-bodied with thrilling purity it builds on the palate with beautiful tannins and notable freshness. It's showing its Cabernet Franc component today with beautiful purity elegance and balance as well as tons of structure. The 2018 is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc that hit 14.4% natural alcohol with an IPT of 77 and a pH of 3.78. It’s another brilliant wine from Thienpont family that’s going to evolve for decades.
