Vieux Chateau Certan, sometimes referred to among Bordeaux enthusiasts as “VCC”, is one of the oldest and most prestigious estates of the Pomerol appellation. The estate is located in the heart of the Pomerol plateau, just a few rows of vines away from the bell tower of Pomerol’s famous church. The vines are planted on the famed Gunz terrace with soils made up of large, round pebbles together with different clays over an iron-rich subsoil.

The vineyard covers 14 hectares (35 acres) in a single block, and includes 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet Sauvignon performs exceptionally well in this terroir and reaches perfect ripeness levels.

With its brilliant velvety color, outstandingly rich aromas, and the depth and subtlety of its flavors, Vieux Chateau Certan is regularly ranked by the world’s press and international tasting panels among the very top wines. It has naturally good concentration and repays cellaring for several years before drinking.

The 2021 Vieux Chateau Certan is a Bordeaux Blend from the Pomerol sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine, produced by Vieux Chateau Certan, is a red wine sealed with a cork closure. It has received high praise from multiple professional reviewers, making it a standout from the 2021 vintage.

The wine is composed of 77% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, the latter adding complexity and structure. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 95 points, with William Kelley describing it as having "aromas of dark berries, cigar wrapper, black truffle, burning embers, mint and rose petals," and noting its "impressive density" and "beautifully refined tannins." Kelley also likened it to the estate's exceptional 2011 vintage.

James Suckling rated the wine even higher, giving it 97 points. He highlighted its "supple, textured and firm tannin structure" and "fragrant notes of flowers, cloves, plums and raspberries," calling it "velvety and perfumed." Suckling emphasized its evolving and layered profile, suggesting it opens beautifully on the palate.

Jane Anson, who awarded it 94 points, praised the "skilful winemaking" and "fragrant curling aromatics" of the wine. She advised giving it time to open up to fully appreciate its structure, which she described as "full of joy." Anson also noted the absence of chaptalization and light fining, with the wine aged in 65% new oak.

Jeb Dunnuck, also giving it 94 points, described the wine as having "ripe yet crunchy black cherries, sappy tobacco, spring flowers, and a kiss of crushed stone-like minerality." He commended its "pure, silky, seamless mouthfeel" and "beautiful tannins," highlighting its balance and acidity.

Jeff Leve of TheWineCellarInsider.com rated it 97 points, singing its praises as "in contention for wine of the vintage." He noted its "display of flowers, spices, truffles, tobacco leaves, cherries, plums, and chocolate," and described it as a wine of "finesse, freshness, refinement, elegance, and vibrancy."

Antonio Galloni of Vinous gave it an outstanding 98 points, calling it "super-classy right out of the gate" and noting its "exceptional balance." He praised its "sublime harmony and overall freshness," suggesting that it should be cellared for a few more years to reach its full potential.

Decanter awarded it 96 points, with their review highlighting the "gorgeous intensity" and "smooth, silky tannins." They noted its "ripe juicy strawberry" and "electric and bright" profile, describing it as "quietly confident" yet detailed.

Wine Enthusiast also gave it a high score of 98 points, with Roger Voss praising its "freshness and a fine perfume" and "lovely velvet character." He noted the influence of the Cabernet Franc in the blend, enhancing the wine's structure and aromatic qualities.

Finally, The Wine Independent awarded it 96 points, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown describing it as having "exuberant notes of black cherries, juicy raspberries, and fresh, crunchy plums," and highlighting its "exhilarating tension" and "fine-grained tannins."

In summary, the 2021 Vieux Chateau Certan is a highly acclaimed Bordeaux blend noted for its complexity, refined tannins, and aromatic depth. It is a wine that promises to evolve beautifully with time, offering longevity and elegance.