VIEUX Château CERTAN 2015
In the heart of the Pomerol plateau, Vieux Château Certan occupies a historic 14-hectare vineyard forming a single contiguous estate. Present on old maps of the region since the 18th century, the property has belonged to the Thienpont family since 1924 and remains closely associated with the work of Alexandre Thienpont. Its terroir combines different shades of clay, gravel, and lighter soils, whose complementarity allows Merlot and Cabernet Franc to express themselves very distinctly. The significant proportion of Cabernet Franc in the vineyard is one of the particularities of Vieux Château Certan in Pomerol and contributes to the finesse of its identity. Merlot brings depth and sensuality, while Cabernet Franc contributes freshness, elegance, and aromatic complexity. The 2015 vintage benefited from a particularly favorable spring, followed by a hot and dry summer, then end-of-season conditions that allowed for a calm wait for the maturity of the different grape varieties. The estate itself describes this vintage as combining the power of Merlot with the delicacy and freshness of Cabernet Franc.
Vieux Château Certan 2015 blends 80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. The harvest was conducted in several stages, on September 17 and 18, then September 22 and 23, before finishing between September 28 and October 2. This progression respects the ripening rhythms specific to the different plots and the three grape varieties. The yield reached 42 hectoliters per hectare, a level that supports a particularly complete material without sacrificing overall balance. The Merlot is ample and silky, while the Cabernet Franc brings decisive freshness and remarkable length on the palate. The small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon completes the structure with an additional touch of framework. The 2015 thus possesses the depth of great Pomerol vintages while maintaining precision and energy that give it a potential for evolution over several decades.
The color retains an intense garnet depth, with still strong ruby nuances. The bouquet combines blackberry, black cherry, and plum with a refined floral dimension evoking violet and peony. Aeration reveals graphite, fine spices, cocoa, and delicate notes of undergrowth that begin to testify to its evolution. The palate has an enveloping but remarkably fluid texture, with fine tannins whose texture evokes velvet more than power. The richness of Merlot is crossed by the freshness of Cabernet Franc, giving the wine a sensation of depth without heaviness. The finish is long and precise, between black fruits, spices, floral notes, and mineral nuances. Vieux Château Certan 2015 will accompany roasted pigeon, beef fillet with porcini mushrooms, rack of lamb, veal with morels, or delicate cuisine around black truffle.
Grape varieties: 80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon
