Stefan Dolhain

8.9

2018 vintage. From the négociant business of François Thienpont. This comes from a 4 hectares parcel of Château Manoir du Gravoux planted in 1958 with 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. While the nose isn't particularly seductive, in the mouth it displays the sweetest,ripest fruit I have ever tasted from the Castillon appellation. This would have deserved a higher score if it wasn't for the drying finish. Diam 10 cork. Abv. 14%. A bit tired the next day, so drink quickly after opening. — 3 days ago

Richard Betts

Master Sommelier/Winemaker/Mezcalero Saint Glinglin, Sombra

9.8

Avec François Thienpont @NoMad blowin our minds! — 14 years ago

Delectable Wine

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9.8

Just as it was en primeur, the 2017 Vieux Château Certan is regal and soaring right out of the glass. Inky blue and purplish fruit, chocolate, licorice, lavender, spice and mint come together in a dense, dark and powerful Pomerol. The 2017 is an explosive, vivid wine of monastic beauty. In this vintage, VCC is especially dark and somber, which adds to a real feeling of mysterious beauty. It is a towering achievement from Alexandre and Guillaume Thienpont. (Antonio Galloni, Vinous, March 2020)
— 7 years ago

Christine Havens

9.0

I was lucky to have had dinner with François Thienpont earlier this spring, and to taste several vintages of VCC. Bellevue is managed by his brother, Nicolas and Stephane Derenoncourt. Bellevue is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cab Franc. The 2000 offers up a bouquet of spring flowers, lavender, black currants, and minerals. Finely-hewn, with well-integrated tannins, and notes of leather, black fruit and graphite. It's just now entering its prime drinking window, with plenty of acidity to carry it forward. — 12 years ago