La Gravette de Certan Pomerol 2018 is the elegant second wine of the renowned Vieux Château Certan, offering exceptional value while showcasing the estate's signature refinement. Crafted predominantly from 90% Merlot with 10% Cabernet Franc, it reflects the finesse and complexity of Pomerol through silky tannins, vibrant dark fruit, and beautifully integrated oak. Approachable earlier than the Grand Vin, this vintage still possesses the structure and balance to reward careful cellaring. The 2018 vintage opens with expressive aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, Black Forest cake, cedar, wet earth, cinnamon, and subtle floral notes, complemented by hints of cigar box and spice. On the palate, layers of ripe black fruit are framed by polished, velvety tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, spicy finish. Aged with approximately 30% new French oak, the wine delivers remarkable elegance and depth while maintaining freshness and precision.

James Suckling | JS 95
Published: Feb 5, 2021

Currant, chocolate, wet-earth and cedar aromas follow through to a medium to full body with integrated, refined tannins that build on the palate and follow through in a polished way. Give it three or four years to open, as it seems rather tight. Almost all merlot with some cabernet sauvignon. Try after 2025.

Decanter | D 93
Published: Nov 10, 2020
Drink: 2026-2045

From young vines under 20 years old, accounting for around one-third of overall production. Just beautifully mouthwatering, with rosebud notes alongside ripe berry fruits, and slight hints of smoked cigar box on the finish. This is a lovely Gravette, and when you go back to retaste after the first wine it still holds its own, just in a less muscular and complex style. 30% new oak.
Closure: Natural Cork
Alcohol: 14.50%
Body: Full
Oak: Oaked
Grapes: 10% Cabernet Franc 90% Merlot

The Wine Advocate | RP 91+
Published: Mar 31, 2021
Drink: 2022-2033

Medium garnet-purple colored, the 2018 La Gravette de Certan charges out of the gate with expressive notions of spiced blackberries, Black Forest cake and stewed plums, plus hints of cinnamon toast, dusty earth and iron ore, with a touch of potpourri. The medium to full-bodied palate is packed with juicy black fruits, framed by velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy.