1998 Vieux Ch. Certan
By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan
1998 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux
A seasoned connoisseur could effortlessly articulate the journey each sip of the 1998 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan presents as it traverses the palate. I am delighted to recall such a journey with this remarkable vintage originating from the storied soils of Pomerol, Bordeaux.
Radiant Vintage Crafted by Tradition and Terroir
When one ponders the climatic harmony of 1998, we bear witness to a season that gifted Pomerol with the conditions favourable for crafting red wines with both power and finesse. The 1998 Vieux Ch. Certan shimmers as a testament to this balance, expressing an elegance and complexity that has been shaped not only by expert vinification but also by two decades of meticulous maturation.
Destined for Decantation: The Unveiling of a Masterpiece
This particular vintage brings forth an aromatic bouquet rich with the essence of dark cherries and ripe plums entwined with ephemeral hints of violet and earthy truffles. On the palate, it unfolds gracefully, presenting layers upon layers of luscious fruit nuanced by silken tannins and an exquisitely measured acidity. Time has allowed for the zenith of integration between fruit and structure in this seraphic blend, positioning it as a covetable choice for investment among aficionados and collectors alike.
The prolonged finish, laced with subtle hints of tobacco and spice, provides ample evidence to support predictions of further enhancement should one opt to cellar this wine for additional years. However, standing at a precipice where peak drinkability converges with potential evolution poses the existential dichotomy faced by any investor or collector.
For those seeking to enrich their portfolio or personal collection with an exemplar from Pomerol's pantheon, there is no denying the allure that the 1998 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan holds. A vintage that is poised for appreciation in both value and sensory delight, its narrative weaves together climate, character, and craftsmanship in a harmonious anthology ready to be discovered anew with each uncorking.
Market price (CAD)
$4,650.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
232.5
Scores and tasting notes
A fine offering, the 1998 has closed down, but there is no doubting its fabulous potential. The color is a dense purple. The wine reveals high tannin, huge body, and classy black fruits intermixed with minerals, spice box, cedar, and tobacco. A long, persistent, tannic finish gives this majestic effort a closed but formidable personality. Patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 2001
Tasted from bottle at Mark Walford's annual lunch at Waterside Inn. The '98 VCC has an expressive bouquet, perhaps more modern in style compared to the more traditional '99. There is an exotic touch with cassis and blueberry scents wafting temptingly from the glass, menthol and orange blossom. The palate is medium-bodied with plenty of sappy red fruit and a sumptuous, quite glossy finish. I am not as taken as this Pomerol as I was three of four years ago, but it is still a flash VCC that has an opulent air about it. Tasted May 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013