Approximately 1,000 cases of the 2013 Vieux Chateau Certan (versus the normal 4,000 cases) were produced. Alexandre Thienpont told me that yields were 22 hectoliters per hectare, and the final blend was unusual in that it was 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The alcohol was a surprisingly lofty 13%. While charming, tasty and elegant, this wine does not possess the depth, fat or texture of a great vintage. The tropical September that spawned botrytis throughout Bordeaux vineyards had to be cut out, and the result was a ridiculously small crop that cost a fortune to produce, but will never sell for a high price since it is a good rather than exceptional wine. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.
Wine Spectator 2014 (90-93 Punkte) Fassprobe
Shows lovely blue and purple fruit, with a decidedly floral feel. Very expressive in terms of aroma. Long and refined through the finish, delivering polish and a lingering tobacco profile, echoing gently. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. - Tasted non-blind. Score range: 90-93 -JM
René Gabriel (17 Punkte)
92 % Merlot, 8 % Cabernet Franc. Dunkles Granat, recht satt in der Mitte, rubiner Rand. Eine Delikatesse, schwarze Kirschen, feine Kräuter, helles Malz, Darjeelingtee und Earl Grey. Im feinen, relativ langen Gaumen ist es einer der seidigsten Pomerols, mittleres Extrakt mit Brombeeren und Cassisnuancen, nicht viel Druck, aber doch sehr lange. Femininer, burgundischer VCC mit Charmepotential. Und so soll es ja in diesem schwierigen Jahr auch sein.