2011, Château Certan de May, POMEROL

Bordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

The 2011 Certan-de-May has a well-defined and fresh bouquet, quintessentially Pomerol with a touch of black truffle. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, well-judged acidity, good backbone with black pepper and cedar towards the slightly dry but still appealing finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting. 91 Neal Martin, Vinous. 

Bright ruby-red. Aromatic herbs, red fruits and a touch of game on the nose, nicely lifted by sweet spice and violet notes. Bright and fresh in the mouth, with the cassis and herb flavours nicely supported by lively acidity and smooth tannins. Finishes with a coffee note. 89+ Ian D'Agata, Vinous (2012).

An impressive effort from this well-situated estate sandwiched between Vieux Chateau Certan, Petrus and La Fleur Petrus, Certan de May's dense ruby/purple-coloured 2011 exhibits a big, spicy, earthy, plum and black-fruited nose, a medium to full-bodied, masculine style, and some noticeable tannins still to be shed. Cellar it for 2-3 years and drink it over the following 12-15. 89 Robert M. Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate (2014).

Drinking Window: 2022 - 2032