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The 1982 Vieux Château Certan stands as an absolute masterpiece, ranking among the finest vintages crafted at this estate since its golden era in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Even today, the nose remains ripe, youthful, and remarkable, emanating a captivating blend of black plums, cassis, mocha, espresso, dark earthy notes, subtle nuttiness, singed tobacco, and a delightful touch of botanicals. The palate is profound, full-bodied, and unwavering at its core, supported by firm yet balanced tannins, impressive focus, and grip, complimented by excellent acidity for the vintage. The wine concludes with great length and grip on its precisely articulated and multifaceted finish.
The 1982 Vieux Château Certan has never been one of the best vintages in the context of a lauded season. In fact, Alexandre Thienpont commented that it would have been better if cropped at 10hl/ha less. It offers brambly red fruit on the nose, sous-bois with a touch of aniseed emerging with time. However, it does not convey the complexity of its Pomerol peers. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. There is a very slight lactic note and a kind of ersatz sweetness on the finish. It is pleasurable, but certainly nothing compared to the legends of the postwar era or recent years. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove. Neal Martin30th July 2024
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Vieux Chateau Certan
History on the Right Bank
A key Pomerol estate covering 14 hectares, Vieux Château Certan or "VCC" as it's sometimes known is regularly ranked as one of the Right Bank's top properties. The vineyard is planted with around 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Picking and sorting is done by hand and varietals are vinified separately in large oak vats. The juice destined for the Grand Vin is run off into 100% new oak for over 18 months before bottling.
The history of the estate dates back to at least the 16th century, when it was purchased by the Demay family from Scotland. The current owners, the Thienpont family, purchased the property in the mid-1920s and were instrumental in establishing their wine's reputation in the region.