2004 - Vieux Chateau Certan, Pomerol

The 2004 Vieux Château Certan was picked starting September 20. This is a little fuller on the nose compared to the 2002, with more fruit concentration, red plum and raspberry, wilted rose petals and a touch of thyme. This is very endearing and open, yet there is vigor. The palate is well-balanced with finely chiseled tannins. While not the most complex vintages of this decade, it is very well-balanced with a fine bead of acidity, lightly spiced with a dash of cracked black pepper on the finish. I have admired this Pomerol since first tasting it from barrel, and I still do. Drink now or over the next 12 to 15 years. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium.

70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc. Bottle came from Bordeaux this morning! The weather in 2004 described as ‘benign’ with no drought or excessive heat or cold. August, however, was ‘complicated with humid, warm and cloudy weather. Sunny September saved the vintage. Picking started on 20 September.’Deep glowing blackish garnet. Not much nose but charming, sweet fruit on the palate. Then a bit of dry tannin kicks in on the end which has a touch of rusty nails. Not the perfect balance of the 2002. Just a little drying on the end. Definitely needs time but I wonder whether the fruit will see the tannin out. (JR)