2010 - Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol

High floral and gunsmoke aromatics, this is intense and concentrated. Where the 2009 has more immediately appeal, this 2010 is clearly going to deliver over the decades. Coiled and reserved tannins, a ton of texture and powerful black fruits, precise and poised, this is exception.

The 2010 Vieux Château Certan has been compared to the 1950 by Alexandre Thienpont, who mentioned that berries were usually small, with yields at 35hl/ha. It's slightly deeper in color than the 2009. This has an outstanding, concentrated bouquet with black fruit, melted tar, cedar and a touch of morels (as noted previously). There is better delineation compared to the previous vintage. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost Côte de Nuits-like texture and perfect acidity, and the tannins are present but fine. Incense and licorice join the fray with time. It's harmonious on the finish with ample freshness. This magnificent VCC is only in its first couple of chapters. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium.