In early 2023, Bordeaux’s en primeur campaign saw a decline, with inadequate discounts on the 2022 vintages. This offered a unique opportunity to explore mature wines at similar price points. This occasion was marked by a tasting event commemorating 100 years of Vieux Château Certan (VCC), a renowned Pomerol estate. This tasting, organized by the descendants of the Thienpont family, who acquired the estate in 1924, showcased wines ranging from 1923 to 2020.
The Thienpont Legacy
The Thienpont family, Belgian wine merchants since 1842, have a rich history of wine distribution. Their acquisition of Vieux Château Certan in 1924 added another layer of prestige to their portfolio. The family has storied connections, including acquiring Château Troplong Mondot in 1921 and notable contributions to wine culture during tumultuous times, such as World War II.
Vieux Château Certan’s Unique Characteristics
Vieux Château Certan distinguishes itself with its 14 hectares of vines and unique varietal composition. Unlike typical Pomerols that predominantly feature Merlot, VCC includes a significant proportion of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. This distinctive blend offers a robust structure favored by connoisseurs. Historical shifts have seen VCC rival Petrus, with the latter even producing Le Pin, a rare Merlot from a nearby plot, which commands thousands per bottle.
Right Bank Expansion
The Thienpont family's influence extends beyond VCC. They have established various estates, including L’If in St-Émilion and L’Hêtre in Castillon, managed by the current Thienpont generation. Château Puygueraud in Francs also remains under their extensive portfolio. Their presence in the right bank signals continuous growth and commitment to high-quality wine production.
Celebrating a Century of Excellence
The centenary tasting event brought together key figures in the wine industry, including wine writers and the Thienpont family. The tasting, comprising 57 vintages, showcased the resilience and elegance of VCC over the decades. Most bottles, stored meticulously in the family’s Etikhove cellars, were in excellent condition. Vintages from 1986, 1952, 1959, and others, albeit with challenges, were testament to the estate’s enduring quality even in less reputed years.
The Distinction of Vieux Château Certan
VCC’s longevity is attributed to its old vines, some planted as early as 1932. These deep-rooted vines have weathered climate challenges, ensuring a consistent quality. Alexandre Thienpont, VCC’s winemaker from 1986 to 2011, chose subtlety over ripeness trends, further enhancing the wine’s aging potential. His meticulous approach has granted VCC a distinguished place in the pantheon of fine wines.
The Future of Vieux Château Certan
The future of VCC looks promising with the involvement of the younger Thienpont generation. Jacques Thienpont’s son, Georges, already honing his skills in viticulture, is set to lead the next phase of Le Pin while maintaining the family’s storied legacy. This familial dedication assures the continuation and evolution of their exceptional wine production.
Vieux Château Certan’s century-long journey exemplifies excellence and tradition in winemaking. Each vintage reveals a narrative of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. To explore the finest vintages and secure authentic bottles, consider joining Quincy at Quincy Wine Storage and Provenance Verification.
