2019, Château Certan de May, POMEROL

Bordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

The 2019 Certan de May is reticent and severe, both on its own and certainly in comparison with most Pomerols in this vintage. Tobacco, cedar, liquorice and sweet red cherry struggle to emerge. My impression is that there is a lot of potential, but that potential is not always realised. I expected more here. 89 Antonio Galloni, Vinous (2022).

The 2019 Certan de May is a curious Pomerol. As I mentioned in my note from barrel, it has an open-knit nose of red berry fruit, touches of black tea, white pepper and damp earth. The palate is cohesive on the entry with light tannins, and a little more angular than its peers (especially juxtaposed against the Hosanna). It seems to be a little pinched and lacks the peacock’s tail that defines many 2019 Pomerols. It just leaves me wanting more. 88 Neal Martin, Vinous (2021).

The 2019 Certan de May has turned out very well, offering up aromas of rich cherries, cassis, loamy soil and creamy but nicely integrated new oak. Full-bodied, layered and lively, with fine concentration, powdery tannins and a long, penetrating finish, this is beautifully balanced Pomerol that no doubt benefits from the perspective of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet. 94 William Kelley, Wine Advocate (2022).

Deep garnet-purple coloured, the 2019 Certan de May rocks up with open-knit scents of warm black cherries, baked plums and blackberry pie with hints of charcoal, crushed rocks, iron ore and menthol plus a fragrant touch of sandalwood. Medium-bodied, the palate gives a pleasantly chewy texture and lovely freshness, supporting the subtle black fruit layers, finishing on a mineral note. 90-92 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (2020).

Excellent quality, here the pull through the palate is slow, with bigger tannins than in some of the Pomerols this year, with the Cabernet Sauvignon making an impact in terms of dark yet savoury berry character but also weight and structure. Excellent wine, seriously good quality, give it at least six years before this softens out. 30% new oak. 94 Jane Anson, Decanter (2020).

Ripe nose with some black truffle, dark chocolate and blackcurrant. On the palate this is juicy and succulent, a lighter fresher wine than the two before, cooling mint, minerality, bright strawberry and raspberry leaf. lifted still with concentration and pomerol power but also glossy with some confidence shining through. Nicely integrated tannins and long length. 94 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Decanter (2022).

Drinking Window: 2026 - 2039