Unique Vieux Château Certan Tasting Celebrates 100 Years

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Discover the exquisite tasting notes and history of Vieux Château Certan, celebrating a century of excellence in Pomerol wines.

Introduction

The world of fine wine is often marked by unique milestones and significant anniversaries. One such occasion was the recent celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Thienpont family’s acquisition of Vieux Château Certan, a prestigious winery located in the heart of Pomerol. This remarkable event featured an exclusive vertical tasting that brought together some of the finest vintages produced over the last century. In this article, we will delve into the exceptional wines from this unique tasting, providing insights into their characteristics and what makes them truly special.

The Historic Tasting

Held at Hof te Cattebeke in Belgium, this unforgettable tasting was hosted by Jacques Thienpont and Fiona Morrison MW. Guests had the rare opportunity to sample a mixed case containing six iconic vintages: 1945, 1947, 1983, 1990, 2010, and 2020. Each bottle represents not only a year but also a distinct expression of terroir and winemaking philosophy that has evolved over generations.

• Vieux Château Certan 1945: Reconditioned in 1995, this wine is known for its complex aromas and vibrant freshness. With hints of mint and espresso, it showcases an impressive structure with lingering tannins.
• Vieux Château Certan 1947: This vintage is described as magical, exhibiting delicate elegance with harmonious flavors that unfold slowly on the palate.
• Vieux Château Certan 1983: Noted for its fresh fruit character combined with floral notes from Cabernet Franc, this wine presents an elegant balance between density and finesse.
• Vieux Château Certan 1990: Renowned for its vibrant fruit profile and aromatic lift, this vintage stands out for its energetic mid-palate presence.
• Vieux Château Certan 2010: Often compared to legendary vintages like the 1950, this wine features cool florals and a luxurious texture that invites long-term aging.
• Vieux Château Certan 2020: The latest addition offers a captivating blend of dark fruits with floral notes and refined tannins, showcasing the winery’s commitment to quality.

Tasting Notes Overview

Each vintage tells a story through its tasting notes, highlighting how factors such as climate conditions and vineyard practices influence wine character:

Vieux Château Certan 1945

Aromatically intriguing with a lighter body than expected. Flavors evolve beautifully with aeration. Notable for fresh mint and aniseed complexity.

Vieux Château Certan 1947

Exudes harmony; it is delicate yet opulent. Freshness reminiscent of modern vintages adds to its allure.

Vieux Château Certan 1983

Compact yet elegant; offers floral nuances alongside darker fruit flavors. A delightful balance of freshness and concentration makes it memorable.

Vieux Château Certan 1990

Expressive with crunchy berry fruits; this vintage’s dynamic energy makes it one of the stars of the lineup.

Vieux Château Certan 2010

The quintessential Pomerol—rich aromatics coupled with silky texture characterize this age-worthy wine perfectly.

Vieux Château Certan 2020

An emotional culmination with captivating depth; it features bright acidity balanced against ripe fruit flavors for ultimate enjoyment.

Pricing & Availability

While these exceptional wines may seem unattainable due to their rarity, they represent not just bottles but stories steeped in history. The pricing is often subjective; true connoisseurs appreciate that these wines transcend mere monetary value—they are treasures to be cherished when found. As stated by Colin Hay in his gift suggestions for Christmas, finding one among your holiday gifts would be an extraordinary delight!

Conclusion

The centennial celebration at Vieux Château Certan not only honored a legacy but also showcased how time influences the expression of terroir through winemaking. Each vintage offered during the tasting served as a testament to both tradition and innovation within the world of Pomerol wines. For enthusiasts seeking to deepen their appreciation or perhaps even acquire these sought-after bottles, understanding their unique characteristics is essential. Whether through purchasing or simply enjoying vicariously through detailed notes like those shared here—each sip becomes part of a larger narrative about one of Bordeaux’s most esteemed estates.

Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash