Vieux Château Certan 2011 – A stunning Pomerol that stands among the vintage’s finest, combining sensual elegance with depth and precision. The bouquet reveals seductive aromas of dark plum, cherry, violet, cedar, and bitter chocolate, layered with subtle spice and earthy undertones. On the palate, it’s velvety and refined, offering superb concentration, supple yet structured tannins, and a long, harmonious finish. Both powerful and graceful, this is a wine of remarkable balance and aging potential — a hidden gem from a challenging year.

The Wine Advocate | RP 96
Published: Aug 11, 2022
Drink: 2021-2050

One of the stars of the vintage, the 2011 Vieux Château Certan was brilliant from barrel (I vividly remember tasting it as a student), and it is beginning to show all of that potential in bottle. Wafting from the glass with inviting aromas of mulberries, cherries, vine smoke, bitter chocolate, violets and spices, framed by a deft application of classy new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, velvety and layered, with terrific concentration, powdery tannins and a long, sapid finish. Even better, this terrific wine remains notably undervalued in the market today.

Wine Enthusiast | WE 96
Published: Jan 5, 2012

95-97. Barrel sample. A beautifully-perfumed wine with ripe, soft tannins and sweet fruit. It has density yet the tannins are so velvety and ripe.

James Suckling | JS 95
Published: Jun 6, 2024

Cedar wood, ripe dark plums and cherries and balsamic depth, with a slightly simpler profile than usual. Full-bodied with firm tannins that are larger-grained, flavored and savory. Crisp, chewy acidity and a long, tense finish. A little rustic, but nonetheless gourmet, as it is full of detail and savoriness. Drink or hold.

Wine Spectator | WS 94
Published: Mar 31, 2014

Very deep and broad for the vintage, this sports ample toast and loam notes, showing remarkable polish and heft. A core of ganache, fig, boysenberry preserves and melted licorice waits in reserve. Offers a fleshy feel through the finish, with lingering loam and maduro tobacco details. Best from 2017 through 2032. 3,500 cases made.

Jancis Robinson | JR 18.5
Published: Jun 6, 2024
Drink: 2026-2050

80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. ‘Cool, dry weather during winter. Summer-like weather settled in from April. Perfect flowering and a fine, dry summer followed. An early harvest’, starting 6 September.
Even deeper crimson than the 2010. The nose is less compelling than the 2010. But it’s all tucked in there and is really very glorious. Ripe fruit and lots of ripe tannin, too. Really needs time. Glossy! A fantastic 2011.