Vieux Château Certan, Pomerol, Bordeaux, France, 2012

Great wine but doesn't quite hit the heights of 2011. 12% Cabernet Franc compared to 30% in 2011. Fresh, floral and fragrant on the palate and nose. Great purity and finesse on the palate.

Still fairly closed even at eight years old, with a ton of potential if a little subdued on the opening. Blackberry, cinnamon and richly exotic spices, with the gourmet side of 2012 fully on display. Lots to enjoy here

A blooming bouquet backed by a splendid core of multi-faceted fruit give this real class, which Left Bank wines often lacked in 2012. The highest proportion of Merlot (87%) since the 1985 vintage, which third-generation owner Alexandre Thienpont described as a ‘glass of perfume’. Still improving.