2016 Vieux Ch. Certan
By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan
2016 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux
An exploration of the eminent 2016 vintage in the Pomerol appellation reveals a particularly splendid iteration of 2016 Vieux Ch. Certan that beckons the discerning palate. This expression is a result of an extraordinary season—a year marked by a balance of warm days and cool nights, imparting unto the grapes an impeccable ripeness paired with preserved acidity, laying the foundation for a wine of superb structure and longevity.
The Veritable Quintessence of Terroir and Time
In the hands of the artisans at Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, the conditions of 2016 were masterfully transformed into a libation that captivates with complexity. The juxtaposition of merlot's opulence with cabernet franc's spine produces a tapestry of flavours where dark fruit consort with a hint of anise and traces of truffle—all hallmarks of Pomerol's esteemed soils.
A Vintage to Relish and Revere
The 2016 Vieux Ch. Certan wields a tannin structure that is both assertive and silken—evoking the sensation of robust grace. Its aging in French oak barrels bestows upon it whispers of vanilla and toast which frame the wine's innate vibrancy without overshadowing its terroir-driven character.
Fine wine investors will note the 2016 vintage as one pivotal for collections; an investment in such a stellar vintage as this promises potential for exceptional development over time, all the while championing the prowess that is Pomerol's essence.
In Pursuit of Oenophilic Excellence
The 2016 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan rises as an emblematic investment piece, one that verily entwines the splendour of Pomerol's 2016 climatic elegance with faultless winemaking craftsmanship. A wine that stands defiantly among its peers, warranting appreciation by those whose palates seek the extraordinary and whose portfolios favour wines with promising maturity arcs.
Market price (USD)
$3,850.00
12x75cl
Highest score
100
POP score
157.5
Scores and tasting notes
The 2016 Vieux Château Certan is blended of 85% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple in color, it leaps from the glass with pristine, vivid notions of candied violets, chocolate-covered cherries, blackberry compote and mulberries with fragrant touches of raspberry leaves, crushed rocks, licorice, cumin seed and yeast extract plus a waft of red roses. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully elegant, the palate builds from a quiet intensity to an incredibly well-sustained aria of crunchy red and black cherries notes plus tons of floral undertones, framed by exquisitely soft yet firm tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long with lingering mineral and floral sparks. How does this 2016 compare to the also amazing 2015 vintage? Stylistically they are very different, as my notes on each should convey, but beyond this I am struck by the incredible harmony and seamlessness of the 2016 along with its amazing depth and energy this year. Bravo!
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 November 2018
The balance and finesse to this wine are really beautiful with ultra-fine tannins and beautiful fruit. It’s full and structured yet so long and intense. It’s a wine that seduces you with every sip — already. Great selection here. Quite simply turbocharged at the end.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2017
Sumptuous nose. Great lift. Real race and dancing stuff. Good structure and line. Nothing sweet or fleshy about this but lovely ripeness and nobility. Amazing persistence and elegance in claret mode.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com