Vieux Chateau Certan 2006 (1.5L)

96 WA / 95 WS / 95 WCI / 95-97 WE

One of the top wines of the vintage is the exquisite 2006 Vieux Chateau Certan. A blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc, it is a stunningly rich effort boasting an inky/blue/purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of forest floor, coffee, toast, and extravagant levels of black currants and blackberries. Hints of charcoal and flowers add to the wines exquisite character. Whats remarkable in this full-bodied wine is that nearly 100% new oak is used, yet the oak is largely drowned out by the wines concentration and complex personality. This full-bodied Vieux Chateau Certan should be reasonably approachable in 3-4 years but last for at least three decades. This great success merits kudos to proprietor Alexandre Thienpont. - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Shows complex and subtle aromas of dried dark fruits and blueberry. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, refined finish. Very fine. Solid and balanced, with lovely sweet fruit on the finish. All in place for the vintage. Best from 2014 through 2020. 3,255 cases made.-Wine Spectator

Showing a beautiful ruby hue, the melange of truffle, red berries, plum and dark cherries pops up with little effort. The fruit displays a spicy quality, with a beautiful purity in its essence. But the palate is perhaps the best part of the experience with its silky, lush, voluptuous textures. 2006 is one of the few vintages when the blend mirrors the vineyard planting. 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.-Jeff Leve, Wine Cellar Insider, tasted 5/16