We know that Bordeaux is a region where the effects of vintage variation manifest themselves in the glass. For this reason, estates that achieve consistency in vintages both challenging and celebrated always delight critics and consumers. I view Vieux Château Certan, or VCC, as one of the finest examples of this consistency on the Right Bank.
Third and fourth-generation Alexandre and Guillaume Thienpont now manage the estate, which prides itself for possessing some of the appellation’s oldest vines (some dating back 80 years). Merlot dominates in the vineyard and so typically in the blend at around 75%; Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon follow.
The style is often lauded for being immensely refined and polished by Pomerol standards, but not at the expense of aromatic pungency. The Sotheby’s Wine line-up of vintages will convince you of the wine’s unwavering quality, especially in the rip-roaring success that was 2012 and the 2016 modern classic.
Don’t miss the second wine, Gravette de Certan, which showcases younger-vine fruit from the ripe, generous 2018 harvest.
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