The well-known Vieux Château Certan has released its 2023 vintage as part of this year's Bordeaux En Primeur campaign, priced at GBP 2,220 (EUR 2,632) per 12x75.
This release, which showcases the château's commitment to traditional winemaking excellence, has been praised by critics and offers potential value for discerning buyers.
Release and Pricing Overview
The 2023 vintage is available at EUR 186 per bottle ex-négociant, marking a significant 32.6% decrease from the 2022 release price of EUR 276. The international trade offers it for GBP 2,220 (EUR 2,632) per 12x75, reflecting a 33.3% drop from the 2022 opening price of GBP 3,300 (EUR 3,912) per 12x75. This considerable price reduction has sparked interest among collectors and investors.
Critical Acclaim
Renowned wine critic Jane Anson awarded the Vieux Château Certan 2023 a score of 96 points, describing it as “gloriously old school, full of hidden depths and pleasures.” Her appreciation underscores the vintage's adherence to the traditional qualities that Vieux Château Certan is known for.
Other critics have echoed this sentiment:
- William Kelley (The Wine Advocate) praised the wine’s complexity, highlighting its “demonstrative aromas of dark berries, pencil shavings, violets mingled with notions of burning embers, iris, crushed mint, and black tea,” and scored it 94-96 points.
- Neal Martin (Vinous) noted the wine’s “well-defined bouquet” with elements of “black cherry, iodine, violet flower, and a touch of crushed stone,” awarding it 94-96 points.
- James Lawther MW (Jancis Robinson): Scoring the wine 17.5/20 points, Lawther pointed out that while the 2023 vintage lacks the overt power of the 2022, it remains “structured and ageworthy all the same.”
- Antonio Galloni (Vinous) was particularly impressed, describing the wine as “nothing short of breathtaking,” and giving it a barrel score of 96-98 points.
- Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW (The Wine Independent) acclaimed the wine’s “pure latent power,” scoring it 97-99 points.
Pricing Analysis and Value Considerations
According to Liv-ex Fair Value methodology, the market prices of Vieux Château Certan are strongly correlated (80.7%) with Neal Martin's scores, making his ratings particularly influential. While the 2023 vintage falls above the Fair Value regression line, buyers seeking value might consider back vintages.
- 2019 Vintage: Despite a slight premium, the 2019 vintage is compelling, boasting a 99-point score from Neal Martin and a perfect 100-point score from William Kelley.
- 2018 Vintage: This vintage is available at a 9.1% discount to the 2023 release and holds a 96-point score. Jane Anson awarded it 98 points, her joint-highest of the past decade.
- 2014 Vintage: With a Market Price of GBP 1,500 (EUR 1,778) per 12x75, the 2014 vintage, which scored 95 points from Martin, is entering its drinking window and represents good value.
Conclusion
The release of Vieux Château Certan 2023 at a reduced price offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire a highly acclaimed vintage. While the 2023 vintage stands out with its traditional elegance and depth, back vintages such as 2019, 2018, and 2014 provide attractive alternatives for those seeking value. Whether for immediate enjoyment or long-term investment, these vintages of Vieux Château Certan continue to embody the timeless quality and sophistication of Bordeaux wines.
Source: Liv-ex