Parker about Old Château Certan 2003
Only 850 cases were made in 2003, the lowest production ever at this estate. The blend was 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot (the Merlot was baked in the heat of June, July and August). This wine has a 92- to 93-point bouquet, but only an 87-point palate. The complexity of the Cabernet Franc component provides a gorgeous nose of new saddle leather, forest floor, sous-bois, blueberries and black currants. Lush, attractive and beautifully fruity on the attack, it fades in the mouth, and lacks the depth and texture to back up the exquisite aromatics and entry. This fully mature 2003 is a success in this appellation that experienced many difficulties. Drink it over the next few years.
Description
Land | France |
Region | Bordeaux Pomerol |
Rebsorten | Cabernet Franc 80%, Merlot 20% |
Alkoholgehalt | 13.00% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | cork stopper |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | Red |
Inverkehrbringer | Vieux Chateau Certan, 33500 Pomerol, France |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 16-18°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 2012 - 2038 |
Parker Punkte | 90 |
Jahrgang | 2003 |
Bordeaux Pomerol, France 🇫🇷

Goes well with

Old Château Certan 2003

The Château Troplong Mondot 2003 is a powerful and opulent wine from a vintage characterized by exceptionally high temperatures and dry conditions. These conditions resulted in particularly concentrated and dense wines, and the Troplong Mondot 2003 is a striking example of the estate's ability to overcome such challenges and produce a wine of remarkable depth and intensity.
In the glass, the wine glows a deep, almost impenetrable purple, indicating its density. The nose is overwhelmingly rich and seductive, dominated by ripe black fruits such as blackberries, plums, and black cherries. Added to this are aromas of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and spices, which add an additional layer of complexity. There are also subtle hints of vanilla and cedarwood, which come from the aging in oak barrels.
The opulence continues on the palate. The Château Troplong Mondot 2003 is lush, full-bodied, and almost creamy in texture. The tannins are powerful but well-integrated, giving the wine impressive structure. The fruit concentration is enormous, accompanied by notes of licorice, tobacco, and roasted herbs. Despite its power, the wine displays a surprisingly pleasant freshness that lends it balance and protects it from overripeness.
The finish is long, intense, and complex, with lingering notes of black fruits, chocolate, and a hint of earthy, mineral tones. This vintage is a prime example of the voluptuous side of Troplong Mondot and can be enjoyed now, but also offers potential for further aging. It is the perfect accompaniment to powerful meat dishes, game, or mature cheeses.