Chateau Vieux Ch Certan   Vieux Ch Certan

1999 Vieux Ch. Certan

By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan

1999 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

When discussing the pantheon of Pomerol excellence, the 1999 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan is a prodigious exemplar of finesse and complexity. As it gracefully ascends into its peak drinking window, this vintage has consistently revealed its capacity to captivate and intrigue discerning collectors and investors alike.

 

A Vintage Defined by Precision and Balance

The 1999 vintage in Bordeaux was not without its challenges; it was a year that demanded exacting standards from terroirs and vignerons. Yet, in the hands of the skilful team at Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, these hardships were deftly transformed into an opportunity to craft a wine characterised by an exquisite balance of power and elegance—a hallmark of this esteemed estate.

On the palate, the 1999 Vieux Ch. Certan entrusts us with a tapestry woven from plush merlot, complemented exquisitely by the structural backbone provided by cabernet franc. A symphony of ripe blackberries, cherries, and an undercurrent of truffle entwines with hints of tobacco leaf and a subtle whisper of oak—this vintage resonates with the experienced wine investor's predilection for complexity married with readiness for consumption.

 

Investment Potential Wrapped in Elegance

The investment allure for any aficionado lies in the bottle's continued evolution and aging potential. As this vintage remains firm in structure with gracefully integrated tannins, it simultaneously offers a rare glimpse into Pomerol's illustrious pedigree.

After two decades, the 1999 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan emerges as a paragon of Pomerol's repository of fine wines—a gem worthy of careful cellar consideration or the immediacy of decanted indulgence.

As an investment piece or sensory joy, this vintage does not merely echo the lore of Pomerol but adds a distinguished chapter to its narrative—one that is bound to advance in prestige with each ensuing year.

Current market price

£1,830.00

12x75cl

Highest score

91

POP score

166.36

Scores and tasting notes

91

Tasted from bottle at Mark Walford's annual lunch at Waterside Inn. The '99 Pomerol wines are in a good place at the moment. The VCC has a generous bouquet with ripe red fruit, hints of incense, rosemary and mint that lend it lift and freshness. The palate is medium-bodied and very harmonious, almost mellow. It is very focused with silky smooth tannins and hints of orange peel towards the elegant finish. What a lovely, natural Pomerol wine, though whether it is a long-term proposition is another matter. Tasted May 2013.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013

91

This 1999 is deep ruby/purple-colored, with a striking perfume of black cherries, truffles, cedar, and vanilla. This layered, opulently-textured wine displays extraordinary purity, elegance, and finesse. It is a classic Bordeaux with superb palate presence that builds incrementally on the palate. The finish is long, with plenty of sweet tannin. Very impressive! Three thousand cases of the 1999 were made from a blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Last year it seemed to reveal an element of dilution, but as always, the truth is in the bottle, and presently there is no evidence of lightness or liquidity. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2002

Vintage performance