Vieux Château Certan

Vieux Château Certan, often abbreviated as VCC, is a prestigious winery located in the Pomerol appellation on the Right Bank of Bordeaux, France. This historic estate is one of the oldest in Pomerol and is renowned for its exceptional terroir and the exquisite wines it produces.

**The Estate:**
Vieux Château Certan is nestled in the heart of Pomerol, neighboring other illustrious estates like Château Pétrus. The vineyard covers approximately 14 hectares (about 35 acres) with vines that have a good average age, contributing to the depth and complexity of the wine. The estate's building is an elegant château that harks back to the 16th century, enveloped by the lush greenery of meticulously maintained vineyards and the estate's gardens.

**The Terroir:**
The terroir of Vieux Château Certan is exceptional, characterized by a diversity of soils which include a mix of gravel, clay, and sand. This variation allows for the optimal growth of the different grape varieties planted on the estate. The presence of iron-rich clay, known locally as "crasse de fer," is particularly beneficial for the Merlot grapes that dominate the vineyard composition. The estate also has vines of Cabernet Franc and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrive in the gravelly parts of the vineyard. The unique soil composition, along with the microclimate of the Pomerol region, contributes to the finesse and structure of the VCC wines.

**The Wines:**
Vieux Château Certan produces wines that are a blend of elegance, power, and complexity. The dominant grape variety is Merlot, which brings lushness and depth of fruit, while the Cabernet Franc adds aromatic complexity, freshness, and backbone. The small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon contributes to the structure and aging potential of the wine. The wines of VCC are known for their silky texture, depth of flavor, and a harmonious balance between the fruit, tannins, and acidity. They exhibit a wide range of aromas and flavors, including ripe red and black fruits, floral notes, spices, and earthy undertones, evolving beautifully with age.

**The Winemaking:**
Vieux Château Certan follows a traditional winemaking approach with modern precision. Harvest is done manually, with grape selection both in the vineyard and at the winery to ensure only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled concrete vats, with each plot vinified separately to preserve its unique characteristics. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with a percentage of new oak that varies according to the vintage, for 18 to 22 months before being bottled.

**The Legacy:**
The estate has a rich history, with records of the property dating back several centuries. Ownership has changed hands over the years, with the Thienpont family being the current custodians, who have owned and managed Vieux Château Certan since 1924. Alexandre Thienpont has been at the helm for several decades, ensuring continuity of the estate's philosophy and commitment to quality that have been hallmarks of VCC. Under his management, the estate has solidified its reputation as one of Pomerol's top wines, sought after by connoisseurs and collectors around the world.

**Visiting Vieux Château Certan:**
Visitors to Vieux Château Certan can expect a warm welcome and a tour of the estate that emphasizes its history, winemaking process, and commitment to producing some of the finest wines in Bordeaux. Tastings can sometimes be arranged by appointment, offering guests the opportunity to experience the elegance of VCC wines in the château's serene setting.