Chateau Vieux Ch Certan   Vieux Ch Certan

2002 Vieux Ch. Certan

By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan

2002 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The turn of the millennium heralded many stellar vintages within the esteemed Pomerol appellation, yet the 2002 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan is a remarkable example of triumph in a year that presented its share of viticultural challenges.

 

An Odyssey in a Glass: The 2002 Revelation

In 2002, Pomerol vintners navigated a season of contrasts, contending with damp conditions that tested both their resilience and virtuosity. These trials culminated in wines that merit admiration for their structure and depth—attributes splendidly encapsulated by the 2002 vintage from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan.

Sufficient decanting unveils a chronicle of complexity in this wine; a tapestry of ripe dark fruit married harmoniously with earthy undertones and a subtle hint of truffle. On the palate, it dances gracefully between muscular tannins and a refined elegance, an artful balance seldom achieved with such poise. Moreover, investors will appreciate that its ageing potential unfolds like the narrative arc of an epic poem, yielding new verses with each passing year.

 

A Vintage Worth Its Terroir

The terroir of Pomerol, evocatively rich and varied, lends itself to the nurturing of Merlot grapes that are the heartbeat of Vieux Château Certan's storied blend. The 2002 iteration rises like a phoenix from its climatic ashes to deliver a sensorium delight stamped with an indelible vintage signature.

Descended from one of Pomerol's most venerated estates, this wine reflects an astute craftsmanship that transcends less favourable climatic dictates. Despite the vicissitudes of 2002, connoisseurs will discern in each glass the exacting standards that underpin Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan's legacy.

 

The Quintessence of Investment-Calibre Wine

For aficionados and investors alike, who seek not just an asset but a cherished collector's piece, this 2002 Vieux Ch. Certan is unquestionably one to secure. With each year it spends gracing cellars, it burgeons in both depth and desirability—prescient qualities for those aiming to add a jewel to their investment portfolio.

In essence, this particular bottle stands as a testament to the tenacity of Pomerol’s winemakers and the unassailable charm of its produce—a wise vintage selection for any discerning investor looking to underscore their collection with a truly noteworthy specimen.

Current market price

£1,580.00

12x75cl

Highest score

93

POP score

121.54

Scores and tasting notes

93

A terrific effort, this classic blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a dark ruby/purple color as well as a complex bouquet of cedar, spice box, black cherries, and cassis. With impressive purity, medium body, moderate tannin, and a long finish (40 plus seconds), it will be at its finest between 2008-2018.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2005

93

An outstanding effort in this challenging vintage for Pomerol, this elegant blend (only 800 cases, or one-third the usual production) of 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot boasts a dense ruby/purple hue as well as a sumptuous perfume of burning embers, incense, cedar, roasted herbs, and sweet black cherries and currants. Neither big nor weighty, it is an elegant, medium-bodied, finesse-styled, velvety-textured 2003 to drink over the next 10-14 years.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164 April 2006

90

Tasted at Bordeaux Index's '10-Year On' tasting in London. This wine has improved since I last tasted it, although I still do not hold it up as a top-tier wine from the estate. The VCC 2003 has an attractive, light, earthy bouquet with light dark cherry and raspberry scents intermingling with dried herbs and sandalwood. The palate is medium-bodied with a better line of acidity than either La Conseillante or L'Evangile. This lends it an attractive freshness and vitality with subtle orange peel and marmalade notes informing the composed, harmonious finish. Tasted March 2013.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013

Vintage performance