Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

A brief history of Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

Vieux Château Certan, one of the oldest estates in the Pomerol appellation of Bordeaux, France, traces its distinguished heritage back to the mid-16th century. The estate, found in the heart of Pomerol, has been under the careful stewardship of the Thienpont family since 1924 when it was acquired by Georges Thienpont, a wine merchant from Flanders. This illustrious period marked the beginning of a legacy of meticulous winemaking and vineyard management that has elevated the château to its prestigious status today. Spanning over 14 hectares, the vineyard is planted with a mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon, reflecting the rich diversity of the Pomerol terroir. For much of the 19th century, Vieux Château Certain was regarded as the top Pomerol estate until it was usurped by its neighbour, Petrus.

Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux overview

Vieux Château Certan is renowned for its philosophy of producing wine that perfectly expresses the unique character of the Pomerol terroir. The estate's approach to winemaking emphasises minimal intervention and a deep respect for the natural cycle of its vineyards. The soil, a rich tapestry of gravel and clay, provides the ideal conditions for growing grapes that are expressive and concentrated. The essence of Vieux Château Certan lies in its ability to balance intensity and elegance, a hallmark of the finest Pomerol wines. The estate's celebrated first wine is a testament to this, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and aromas. The blend, dominated by Merlot with Cabernet Franc and a small inclusion of Cabernet Sauvignon, captures the diversity and richness of the Pomerol terroir.

Performance

Understanding Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The essence of Vieux Château Certan lies in its ability to balance intensity and elegance, a hallmark of the finest Pomerol wines. Harvesting at Vieux Château Certan is conducted with painstaking care, ensuring that each cluster of grapes is picked at its optimal ripeness. The winemaking process involves meticulous sorting of the grapes, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled vats to preserve the fruit's natural qualities. Ageing occurs in French oak barrels, a significant proportion of which are new, for 18 to 22 months, allowing the wine to develop its signature complexity and finesse. Vieux Château Certan features ripe dark fruit, truffle, violet and a hint of minerality in an elegant palate with silky tannins. This Grand Vin boasts exceptional longevity.

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