2005 Vieux Ch. Certan
By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan
2005 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Nestled within the esteemed confines of the Pomerol appellation, the 2005 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan is a radiant exemplar of Bordeaux’s lauded 2005 vintage. This year is frequently vaunted by connoisseurs for producing wines of exceptional balance, structure, and longevity—a triumvirate that impeccably defines this particular offering.
A Vintage Celebrated for Longevity and Elegance
The 2005 vintage in Pomerol was graced with nearly ideal conditions, leading to a wine that exhibits a tantalising friction between opulent fruit and robust tannin structure. The 2005 Vieux Ch. Certan reveals a nose that is ripe with dark cherries, truffle and hints of violet, harmoniously interlaced with an earthy minerality—a reflection of the vineyard's deep gravel terraces.
Lavish Complexity Met With Investment Calibre
Upon tasting, the wine’s luxuriant layers unfold on the palate with precision; Merlot’s plushness married beautifully with the cabernet franc's floral lift and cabernet sauvignon's gravitas. Its textural complexity coupled with an enlivened acidity ensures that this vintage is not merely a sensory delight but one that holds immense potential as a long-term wine investment.
The finish, lingering and sophisticated, offers a convincing testament to the skilled vinification processes honed over generations at Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan. It stands boldly, indicating both immediate enjoyment for collectors and a profound ageing capability for investors—a truly compelling combination for any aficionado of fine Bordeaux.
For those seeking an investable wine that promises to burgeon with grace and character as it matures, the 2005 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan must be considered a paramount acquisition. With its astute balance of classic Pomerol stylistics and the exceptional qualities of its vintage year, it stands as an exemplar sought after by those who invest not just in wine, but in liquid history.
Market price (USD)
$3,418.24
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
164.71
Scores and tasting notes
This begins with a sexy roasted fruit character on the nose, then opens up to hints of spice, chocolate, wet earth, and dried flowers. The palate is incredible, with a concentration that builds, and a finish that remains agile and racy. Very defined and beautiful wine with great length and freshness. This still needs some time in the bottle. Pull the cork in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, May 29th 2012
Tasted at the Pomerol tasting at the Antique Wine Company. Alexandre Thienpont fashioned an impressive ’05 that I have been fortunate enough to taste multiple times. It has a strict, linear and primal nose that remain broody, with hints of crushed stone and truffle that emerge with time. The palate is supremely well balanced with crushed stone, expressive Cabernet Franc and a wonderful, structured finish that is very persistent in the mouth. This needs another four or five years to reach its plateau. Tasted December 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2013
A stunning effort from Alexander Thienpont, the 2005 Vieux Chateau Certan (a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc) reveals an inky/blue/purple color along with a rich, sumptuous perfume of black olives, lavender, roasted herbs, licorice, pain grille, and oodles of truffles as well as creme de cassis. In the mouth, hints of chocolate and charcoal also make an appearance along with good acidity, fabulous purity, and a full-bodied, powerful mouthfeel. In keeping with the style of this terroir, the wine is reserved and restrained, but deep. It should develop magnificently, and age for 30-40 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2008