An outstanding VCC this year and one of the picks of Pomerol. Deep aromatics of dark black fruit that stays cool with some liquorice and cola, plus a soft floral fragrance and chocolate creaminess. Inky and really vibrant colour in the glass. Smooth and supple, both creamy and chalky with black fruit and a heady savoury spiced aspect. I love the stickiness – there’s a chew but it remains cool and lifted, nothing heavy, more comforting like a big hug – velvety, charming and almost sensuous. Acidity doesn't stick out, the focus is on complexity and remarkable texture with ripe tannins. Density is there yet it doesn't feel heavy. Ends so cool with lots of cola, a touch of iron and stones, fresh mint and savoury herbaceousness. Absolutely beautiful, hedonistic and so long. 3.75pH. A yield of 22hl/ha. Ageing two thirds new oak, one third one-year-old barrels. (GH)

Fragrant, full of energy, dense with silky tannins, steals up on you as it opens, and this is a gorgeous wine that deserves attention. Chamomile, cumin, cassis, blackberry, cocoa bean, espresso, fresh thyme, tobacco, layered and luscious. This really stayed with me, and I absolutely recommend it, one of the wines of Pomerol in the vintage. Harvest September 8 to 18. Estate signature, 22hl/h yield, 3.75ph. The first year with Guillaume Thienpont fully in charge, although still working alongside his father Alexandre (who began with his own father in 1985).

Deep purple-hued, the 2025 Vieux Château Certan is a blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon that's being raised in 66% new French oak with the balance in once-used barrels. Harvested from yields of just 22 hectoliters per hectare, it hit 14% alcohol with a pH of 3.75. The aromatics are powerful and concentrated, with ripe black and blue fruits, graphite, scorched earth, and violets all defining the nose. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a balanced, layered mouthfeel, rock-solid mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It's a serious Vieux Château Certan that's going to be great, but it's going to need time. 95-97+