CERTAN DE MAY 2023

A perfumed, aromatic, and floral Pomerol, the 2023 Château Certan De May is based on 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and was aged 16-20 months in 80% new French oak. Juicy red fruits, leafy underbrush, and spring flowers all emerge from the bouquet, and it's medium-bodied on the palate, with a pure, layered, elegant mouthfeel, fine tannins, and nicely integrated acidity. It's one of the more open, expressive, and complex Pomerol in the vintage, and I'd happily drink a bottle any time over the coming two decades. Drink 2026-2045.

The 2023 Certan de May was picked from September 13 to 26. As usual at this early stage, the aromatics are not convincing, and there is a shortfall in fruit concentration and complexity (especially following the 2023 Latour à Pomerol). The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins and notes of blackcurrant pastille mixed with brown spices, though it seems to taper away toward the finish. This is not bad by any means, but it seems to lack a bit of ambition given its propitious terroir.

Classic Pomerol character, with tapenade, black truffle and dark berry aromas that follow through to a medium to full body with creamy tannins and a savory, spicy, almost salty aftertaste. 65% merlot, 25% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon. Needs three or four years to soften. Best after 2028.

Aromas of dark berries, minty cherries, chocolate and creamy new oak introduce the 2023 Certan de May, followed by a medium to full-bodied, fleshy palate that's a touch varietal and ephemeral, concluding with a fleeting, vanillin-inflected finish.