Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol, Bordeaux
A brief history of Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Château Certan de May, located in the revered Pomerol appellation, is a symbol of the rich winemaking heritage that typifies this region of Bordeaux. The origins of Château Certan de May date back to the 17th century, making it one of the oldest estates in Pomerol. Over the centuries, it has been owned and cultivated by several prominent wine families, each contributing to its legacy and prestige. The château, currently under the direction of the Demay family, has been a standard-bearer in the region since the early 20th century. It encompasses vineyards planted 70% to Merlot along with smaller quantities of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The house’s vineyards are adjacent to other illustrious Pomerol estates. Château Certan de May is renowned for its commitment to tradition coupled with a modern approach to viticulture and winemaking.
Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol, Bordeaux overview
The château’s first wine, Certan de May, is a reflection of Pomerol's quintessential elegance and complexity and is much sought after by fans of the appellation. This wine is predominantly Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and textures. It stands out for its opulent yet refined character, making it a coveted choice among collectors and enthusiasts.
Performance
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Understanding Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The vineyards of Château Certan de May are characterised by the diverse clay and gravel soils typical of Pomerol, providing optimal conditions for Merlot vines. The château emphasises sustainable farming practices and the vineyards have an average vine age of 35 years, contributing significantly to the depth and intensity of the grapes. The strategic positioning of the estate allows for excellent sun exposure, ensuring the perfect ripeness of the fruit. Grapes are carefully selected to guarantee optimal quality. The fermentation process occurs in temperature-controlled environments, followed by ageing for 12 to 14 months in a minimum of 60% new French oak barrels. This meticulous approach results in a wine that not only embodies the distinctive terroir of Pomerol but also represents the château’s enduring legacy of producing wines of exceptional quality and character. Certan de May displays ripe dark fruit, truffle and hints of violet complemented by gracefully-integrated oak, velvety tannins and balanced acidity. This wine has excellent cellaring potential.