France from Vieux Chateau Certan

One of the oldest estates in Pomerol, Vieux Chateau Certan has somewhat shrouded history. We do know that its name is derived from the 18th century owner, neogiciant and wine merchant Jean Demay de Certan, who is responsible for the original chateau and sold wine with the Sertan label. The modern chateau was built by Charles de Bousquet who bought the estate in 1858. 

The modern story begins in 1924 with the Belgian wine merchant, Georges Thienpont, acquring the estate. Also the owner of Chateau Troplong Mondot, Thienpont oversaw several years of success for Vieux Chateau Certan. Natural and economic trouble through the '30s created many poor or absent vintages and forced the sale of Troplong Mondot, but Thienpont persevered and created some legendary wines in the '40s. The estate is now in the hands of Alexandre Thienpont who is creating wine with expert care and attention, modernising the faclities and taking several great vintages to fruition throughout his tenure. 

The 14 hectares of Vieux Chateau Certan's vineyard are planted to 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and the vines have an average age of 50 years!