2014 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

In the pantheon of Bordeaux wines, the 2014 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan stands as a beacon of meticulous cultivation and vinification amidst the Pomerol landscape. This vintage is a study in balance, arising from a year that started with despondence yet triumphed with an Indian summer, nurturing the grapes to a level of ripeness that defied initial predictions.

Reflections of a Challenging Season

The journey of the 2014 vintage was riddled with challenges; a damp, cool summer provoked anxieties of under-ripeness. However, September’s salvation with glorious warmth and optimal conditions ushered in serene ripening. The 2014 blend, predominantly Merlot with touches of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, exemplifies the adaptive prowess of Pomerol’s terroir.

A Vintage Tale of Elegance and Structure

This climatic rollercoaster imparted a distinctive duality upon the 2014 Vieux Ch. Certan — an interplay between tension and generosity. In its current repose, the vintage unravels tapestries of dark fruit couched in fine-grained tannins. There is an enveloping elegance to each pour, coupled with an undercurrent of vigour synonymous with longevity in the cellar.

The articulation of terroir is profound; earthy undertones coupled with hints of truffle and violet speak volumes of the Pomerol influence — a complexity befitting a wine poised for significant development over time.

Cultivation for Connoisseurs

For enthusiasts and investors alike, the 2014 Vieux Ch. Certan represents an articulate investment — broader in its approachability than its older siblings yet maintaining a lineage of distinction that solidifies its worth among connoisseurs. This particular expression articulates both an immediate pleasure in its supple texture and layered bouquet as well as an anticipated ascension through considered ageing.

In Summary

The 2014 vintage’s narrative from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan is one of resilience against the odds, delivering a wine that bespeaks finesse and promises reward for those seeking depth and evolution in their collection. In essence, it is not merely an offering from Pomerol but a vibrant testament to Bordeaux’s storied legacy — one to savour now or treasure for years to come.