2014 Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol, Bottle (750ml)

DR98 Fragrant and expressive on the nose, beguiling and totally inviting. Smooth, supple, energetic, lively and with understated power. This is great, full of life and charm, not the biggest or weightiest but this is carrying its flavour so well and still has plenty of structure and well-integrated tannins. Feels more youthful than many others in the tasting, vibrant almost. A clear stand out with ripe fruit, fresh acidities, a mineral undertone and grip and hold to the tannins. Love it. Still not a big wine, but this is finessed and characterful.

AG97+ One of the unquestioned stars of the vintage, the 2014 Vieux Château Certan soars out of the glass with aromatic intensity, bright acids and finely sculpted fruit. Cool, intense but very much reserved in the style of the year, the 2014 exudes class. The flavors are intense and vibrant throughout. Dark red and purplish-hued stone fruit, lavender, mint and spice lead into the striking finish. The 2014 is just as impressive today as it was from barrel. As always, Vieux Certan has the rare ability to confer power without excess weight. The 2014 is a magical bottle. Readers who can find it should not hesitate. The blend is back to classic proportions of 80 % Merlot and 20 % Cabernet Franc.

JD97 The 2014 Vieux Château Certan is glorious stuff that has more personality and sexiness than just about every other wine in the vintage. Kirsch, black cherries, flowers, forest floor and exotic spice characteristics all emerge from this ethereally textured, elegant, beautifully rich 2014 that has notable acidity, sweet tannin, and a great finish. With an almost Burgundian elegance and purity, it’s already drinking nicely, but will be even better in another 3-4 years and keep for two decades.