1967 Pomerol Vieux Château Certan

Two bottles — 1967 Pomerol – Vieux Château Certan

The 1967 Vieux Château Certan is a fascinating glimpse into a historic Pomerol vintage from one of the appellation’s most respected estates. Known for producing wines of finesse and balance, Vieux Château Certan consistently crafts Merlot-dominant blends that age gracefully, even in less heralded years. The 1967 vintage was overshadowed by legendary surrounding years (1966 and 1970), but the best Right Bank wines—especially those from well-drained vineyards like VCC—still offer a compelling, mature drinking experience today.

The 1967 Vintage in Pomerol

The growing season was marked by a warm summer that was abruptly cut short by September rains, forcing many châteaux to harvest earlier than ideal. The wines from clay and gravel-rich terroirs, like those at Vieux Château Certan, fared better than many Médoc estates, producing elegant, medium-bodied wines with early charm. While not a blockbuster vintage, it provided wines with fresh acidity and refined tannins, well-suited for those who appreciate classic, aged Bordeaux with tertiary complexity.

Tasting Notes

Appearance:

The wine presents a light garnet hue with a tawny rim, a clear indication of its long evolution. The core remains translucent, suggesting a wine that has aged with grace while maintaining some vibrancy.

Nose:

A beautifully evolved bouquet unfolds with notes of dried redcurrants, leather, and cigar box, alongside hints of autumn leaves, truffle, and a delicate touch of sandalwood. The aromatic profile is deeply evocative of aged Pomerol, where the Merlot’s plushness has transformed into something more ethereal and nuanced.

Palate:

On the palate, the 1967 Vieux Château Certan is delicate yet expressive. The fruit has softened into notes of dried cherries and stewed plums, complemented by earthy tones of mushroom, graphite, and an elegant herbal undertone. The tannins have fully integrated, offering a silky texture with a finish that lingers with hints of cedar, black tea, and old leather. While the wine no longer has the power of its youth, its elegance and refinement make it a joy for lovers of classic aged Bordeaux.

Score: 91/100

While not a powerhouse vintage, 1967 Vieux Château Certan is a beautifully aged Pomerol that rewards those who appreciate subtlety over concentration. It is a wine of grace, tertiary complexity, and historic charm, ideal for connoisseurs who value old Bordeaux at its peak of refinement.