2014 Vieux Chateau Certan

A forward, beautifully balanced Pomerol, the 2014 Vieux Château Certan offers notes of truffle-laced earth, floral nuances, and ripe red and black fruit. Medium-bodied and elegant, it has fine tannins, juicy acidity, and a lively, energetic profile. While it shows a refined, pretty style, it remains somewhat understated, gaining a touch more complexity with air. This charming, subtle, elegant Pomerol is best enjoyed over the coming 10-15 years.

70 % Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc. Mild and wet start to the season, then fine weather mid June allowing even flowering. Scattered stormy periods, then ‘consistent summer sunshine from the end of August until the harvest … De-leafing was necessary on the west side of the rows in order to enhance ripening one week before harvest.’ Deep crimson with some maturity at the rim. Fragrant, attractive nose but quite sturdy, chewy tannins at the moment. Still youthful with quite a bite. More marked acidity than some. But unformed. (JR)

The 2014 Vieux Château Certan comes from two bottles, the first out of condition. The second has a potent Cabernet Franc-driven nose, which is no surprise, as it comprises 19% of the blend: bell pepper and black pepper infusing the black fruit. There is almost a Loire-like scent. The palate is medium-bodied with granular tannins, fine acidity and grip with truffle and raspberry. It's earthy with just a touch of dark chocolate on the finish. This Pomerol is surfeit with character and is just about to enter its drinking window. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium.