1999Data sheet

From the early spring to the harvest, 1999 was a year of gentleness and temperance. Sunshine and rainfall were never excessive, thereby fostering regular, homogenous ripening of the grapes.

On our estate, with its early terroirs, the grapes were harvested over 10 days, from September 13th to 23rd, in excellent conditions. For the third year running, they revealed the supremacy of the Merlot, with its remarkable fullness, depth and aromatic complexity.

Given the outstanding maturity of the grapes, we chose short on-skin fermentation to avoid over-extracting and to preserve the fruit. Our blend is a perfect reflection of the harvest: 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and only 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Today, at the end of its ageing process, the Vieux Château Certan 1999 boasts all the gifts and promise of a great wine, subtle and distinguished. The deep garnet red colour heralds a magnificent complex nose of violets and black fruit. On the palate, the wine is full and smooth, with jammy fruit, revealing the fine texture of its tannins.

Given its aromatic complexity, refined taste and elegant finish, the Vieux Château Certan 1999 is reminiscent of the great 1985 vintage, possibly with even more richness. Ideally, wine-lovers should wait 8 to 10 years to allow it to assert itself, and 15 years to reach its full expression, after decanting.

Alexandre Thienpont