High floral and gunsmoke aromatics, this is intense and concentrated. Where the 2009 has more immediately appeal, this 2010 is clearly going to deliver over the decades. Coiled and reserved tannins, a ton of texture and powerful black fruits, precise and poised, this is exception. 98 points

The 2010 Vieux Chateau Certan has been compared to the 1950 by Alexandre Thienpont, who mentioned that berries were usually small, with yields at 35hl/ha. It`s slightly deeper in color than the 2009. This has an outstanding, concentrated bouquet with black fruit, melted tar, cedar and a touch of morels (as noted previously). There is better delineation compared to the previous vintage. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost Cote de Nuits-like texture and perfect acidity, and the tannins are present but fine. Incense and licorice join the fray with time. It`s harmonious on the finish with ample freshness. This magnificent VCC is only in its first couple of chapters. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium. 97 points

The 2010 Vieux Chateau Certan is deep garnet in color, and - POW - the nose opens as a complete spice-bomb, featuring notes of fenugreek, cumin seed and cinnamon stick over a core of Black Forest cake, plum preserves and blueberry pie with hints of fragrant earth and crushed stones. Full-bodied, rich and seductive in the mouth, it is laden with layers of black and blue fruit preserves, framed by super plush tannins, finishing epically long and perfumed. 100 points