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Vieux Château Certan Grand Vin Pomerol 1982 - 750 mL

$2,122.00 $1,999.00 Save 6%

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1982 Vieux Château Certan

Condition Report: Ullage  - Top Shoulder (-4cm) as pictured

Overview
Vieux Château Certan is one of the most renowned estates in the Pomerol appellation of Bordeaux, celebrated for its complex, age-worthy wines. Situated on the Pomerol plateau, it consistently produces wines that rival even the most iconic Bordeaux estates. The 2018 vintage is particularly noteworthy due to its exceptional quality, driven by a combination of ideal weather conditions and meticulous winemaking practices.

History of Vieux Château Certan

Dating back to the 16th century, Vieux Château Certan is one of Pomerol's oldest estates. Owned by the Thienpont family since 1924, it has built a reputation for producing elegant and refined wines. Alexandre Thienpont and his son Guillaume oversee operations, maintaining the château’s traditions while embracing modern techniques.

Terroir and Vineyards

The estate spans 14 hectares on the prized plateau of Pomerol, with a unique mix of clay and gravel soils that are ideal for the region’s grape varieties. The vineyard is divided into small parcels, each vinified separately to bring out the unique characteristics of the terroir.

Overview
Vieux Château Certan is one of the oldest and most revered estates in Pomerol, Bordeaux, renowned for producing some of the finest Merlot-based wines in the world. The 1982 vintage holds legendary status in Bordeaux, marking a year of near-perfect weather conditions that resulted in wines of exceptional ripeness, depth, and longevity.

The Estate

Vieux Château Certan is situated in the heart of Pomerol, a small but prestigious appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. The estate dates back to the mid-1700s and has been under the meticulous stewardship of the Thienpont family since 1924. The château is celebrated for its balance of tradition and modern winemaking techniques, consistently producing wines of elegance and complexity.

Terroir and Vineyards

The estate spans 14 hectares of prime vineyard land, with a unique mix of clay and gravel soils, perfectly suited for growing Merlot and Cabernet varieties. The microclimate and terroir impart the wine with depth, elegance, and a sense of place.

Grape Composition (1982 Blend):

  • Merlot: ~80%
  • Cabernet Franc: ~20%

The 1982 Vintage

The 1982 vintage is one of Bordeaux's most iconic, often referred to as the "vintage of the century." A warm and dry growing season resulted in perfectly ripened grapes, creating wines with opulent fruit, soft tannins, and incredible aging potential. Pomerol wines from this vintage, including Vieux Château Certan, are celebrated for their plush textures and aromatic complexity.

Tasting Notes

  • Appearance: Deep garnet with slight bricking at the rim, indicative of its maturity.
  • Nose: A captivating bouquet of black cherries, dried plums, truffle, cedar, leather, and earthy notes, with hints of cigar box and violets.
  • Palate: Silky and full-bodied with layers of red and black fruits, baking spices, and a touch of dark chocolate. The wine displays refined tannins, seamless integration of acidity, and remarkable balance.
  • Finish: Long and elegant, leaving a lasting impression of dried fruits, earth, and spice.

Ageing Potential

At over 40 years of age, the Vieux Château Certan 1982 remains a masterpiece, particularly when well-cellared. While it is nearing its peak, it still retains freshness and vitality, making it a joy to drink now. However, it can age gracefully for a few more years.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes that complement its complexity:

  • Duck breast with a cherry reduction
  • Beef Bourguignon
  • Lamb shank with rosemary and garlic
  • Mature cheeses, such as aged Gouda or Stilton

Investment and Collectibility

The 1982 Vieux Château Certan is a highly collectible wine, valued by enthusiasts and investors alike. Its combination of a legendary vintage and the château’s esteemed reputation makes it a prized addition to any collection. Prices for well-preserved bottles often reflect its rarity and historical significance.

Vieux Château Certan 1982 is a testament to the timeless quality of Pomerol wines, offering a sublime drinking experience and a snapshot of Bordeaux’s most celebrated vintage.

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