Vieux Château Certan Pomerol 2013

This Chateau, which already appeared in 1745 on the famous map of Bellayme under the name of 'Sertan', is located in the heart of the Pomerol plain.

It extends for 14 hectares in a single block, and the vineyard is the result of passion and hard work.

Today it is made up of 65% merlot, 30% cabernet franc and 5% cabernet Sauvignon.

Awards

94 points Wine Enthusiast

 With a higher proportion of Merlot (92%) than usual, this is a round, ripe wine released at just 20% of normal production. The generous texture and tannins are well integrated into the rich fruit. It's juicy, broad and showing the typical acidity of the vintage. With its tannic structure, the wine will age well. Drink from 2020.  (3/2016)

90-93 points Vinous

 The 2013 Vieux Chateau Certan is a wine of extraordinary finesse and elegance. Blue and purplish-toned fruits, violets, lavender, sweet spices and mint are woven together in a fabric of stunning beauty. The 2013 is translucent, weightless and simply impeccable throughout. Clearly, the structure is that of an average year, but the sheer beauty is that of a superb site. There is so much to like here.  (4/2014)

92 points Wine Spectator

 Very enticing, featuring crushed boysenberry and raspberry fruit, accented by fruitcake, black tea and bramble notes. Shows excellent length and energy for the vintage, with enough stuffing for the cellar. This has developed grip since the barrel tasting. Best from 2018 through 2028.  (3/2016)

91 points James Suckling

 This is soft and silky with chocolate, orange peel and dust. Medium body, round and light tannins. Fresh finish.  (2/2016)

Jancis Robinson

 92% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc. Highest proportion of Merlot in memory -- because it is earlier ripening, it performed better. Sumptuous and luxurious on the nose, very open and sweet fruited. Fine, floury tannins. Beautifully formed flavours -- no mean feat in this vintage. The oak is very complementary too. It’s a light iteration of the style, but this is a fair and successful reflection of 2013. (17.5/20 points)  (4/2014)

92/100 Tim Atkin MW, timatkin.com, April 2014