2015 Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol

Vinous 91

The 2015 Vieux Château Certan is a wine that Alexandre Thienpont described as being “easy to understand.” He was rather negative towards this vintage and likened it to a barbecue rather than haut cuisine! It was picked in three waves through the vines between September 17 and October 2 at 42hl/ha. This has a comparatively high alcohol at 15%. It has a slightly oxidative bouquet with spice box and white pepper scents, but there is also some evidence of VA here. The palate is static and lacks vibrancy. It’s savory, with some warmth on the finish. A second bottle is poured, and it is consistent, There is nothing faulty here, but it feels hot and smudged on the finish. Alexandre Thienpont had to have his arm twisted to add this to the line-up, and I can understand why. It tasted so well a few years ago…is this a vintage tripping over its shoelaces? Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium. [Neal Martin, 30/07/2024]

Robert Parker 98

Blended of 80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Vieux Chateau Certan opens with profound notes of blueberry compote, dried mulberries, black forest cake, licorice, violets and garrigue with wafts of black truffles, sandalwood and rose hips. Medium to full-bodied, very earthy/savory and beautifully layered with very plush yet present tannins, it offers lovely freshness and a very long minerally finish. So very Pomerol! [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 30/03/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050