2011 Vieux Ch. Certan
By Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan
2011 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux presents a fascinating study in the delicate balance of terroir, climate, and skilled winemaking. The 2011 Vieux Ch. Certan from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan is an exquisite testament to this balance, especially within the renowned appellation of Pomerol.
Meticulous Craftsmanship Amidst Climatic Challenges
One must acknowledge that 2011 was a year of contrasts, facing vineyard keepers with climatic challenges that demanded exacting choices in vineyard and cellar alike. It is precisely these hurdles that demarcate a merely proficient wine from one crafted with exquisite precision—and the latter is unmistakably true for this offering from Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan.
A symphony of Merlot's plump juiciness with the taut structure of Cabernet Franc, the 2011 Vieux Ch. Certan is a captivating blend that reveals both finesse and muscularity. Upon the first sip, one experiences a cascade of dark berries, refined oak undertones, and a whispering trail of earthy truffles—a signature of Pomerol’s hallowed grounds.
Investment Potential in a Complex Bottle
Given its subtle complexity and expertly executed ageing potential, the 2011 Vieux Ch. Certan emerges as a distinguished candidate for fine wine investors. In an era when provenance and legacy command respect on the ledger as much as on the palate, this particular vintage carries with it the promise of enjoying heightened demand as it matures gracefully in the bottle.
Savouring Elegance from a Temperamental Year
In essence, the 2011 Vieux Ch. Certan embodies an intoxicating dance between opulent fruit and velvet tannins—this bottle invites you to explore Pomerol’s nuanced grandeur amid a year that only the most adroit winemakers could triumph.
As connoisseurs consider portfolios that reflect discernment for both taste and fiscal acumen, this wine undoubtedly merits attention by virtue of its poised evolution and the storied prowess of Chateau Vieux Ch. Certan. An astute acquisition now could yield dividends both for the senses and for investment savvy collectors who have an eye for vintages anchoring history with exclusivity.
Market price (GBP)
£1,260.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
74.12
Scores and tasting notes
The Vieux Chateau Certan was cropped between 6th and 7th of September and from 14th until 20th September. That's what you'll read everywhere, although I was filming Alexandre when he was picking the final Cabernet around the 29th September! Cropped at 37hl/ha, it is a blend of 70% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon and (yay!) 29% Cabernet Franc. It delivers 13.6 degrees alcohol with a total acidity of 3.5gms/L and an IPT of 83. After the Cabernet Francless 2009 and 2010, this is more what I consider to be a classic VCC nose and as Alexandre, unlike those previous vintages that gives you everything up front, this is far more intellectual and enigmatic with hints of mineral laden fruit, limestone and small dark cherries. It is beautifully defined yet distant. The palate is succinctly balanced with crisp acidity, exceptional balance and superb backbone. There is an undercurrent of masculinity, a saline tincture, crushed stone and a touch of dried herbs and yet these are just fleeting hints. It has enormous length and it is one of the very few that could be on the same ethereal plateau as the 2009 and 2010 and perhaps one day...even better. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
The aromas of this are so gorgeous, with blackberries, black cherries and wet earth. Full body with super-fine tannins and bright acidity. A firm, tightly structured young red with orange peel and other citrus fruit. This is so focused and straight. Try in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, January 28th 2014
The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2011 Vieux Chateau Certan offers a beautiful bouquet of plums, black cherries, cassis and hints of graphite as well as spice, an excellent texture and medium body. A success in this difficult vintage, it should age easily for 10-15 years. Yet after the trilogy of great wines in 2008, 2009 and 2010, few consumers are likely to pay much attention to this 2011.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014