This very refined with polished, chewy tannins and black olives. Medium-to full-bodied, the tannins are chiseled and energetic. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 25% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon.

Tasted by Jane Anson(at Primeur week tastings in Bordeaux, 01 May 2021)

This is pretty sombre, with a more Left Bank feel than many, really get the savoury and pared back dark berry feel of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, ensuring that the pressure from the tannins is to the fore. As it relaxes in the glass, a grilled coffee bean and liquorice note comes out. This is a lovely and powerful wine that takes its foot off the pedal at the right moment. Has personality and sets itself apart. Really enjoyable, in the Gazin-style in that this is subtly powerful rather than over-exuberant. New cellars at Certan de May, harvest of Merlot September 11 to 16, and the two Cabernets September 28 and 29.

Drinking Window 2026 - 2042

The first thing you notice is the pronounced note of cinnamon followed by toast, plums, wet earth, violets and dark cocoa. Deeply colored, the wine is medium-bodied, soft, silky, fresh, lifted and polished. The spicy finish, with its refined cherries and plums is long, vibrant and sensuous. This will age and evolve for at least 2 decades or more with little effort. 94-96

A terrific showing from this estate, the 2020 Château Certan De May offers a dense, medium to full-bodied, perfectly ripe style that carries chalky tannins as well as notes of darker cassis and berry fruits intermixed with violets and chocolate. It stays nicely balanced on the palate and should drink well right out of the gate.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Certan de May gives up compelling notes of ripe, juicy black plums, fresh blackberries and black cherry compote, plus suggestions of lavender, wild sage and clove oil. The medium to full-bodied palate is softly textured with bags of freshness framing the generous black fruits, finishing on a savory note.
Drink Date
2024 - 2038
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW

The 2020 Certan de May is a powerful, imposing Pomerol. Swaths of tannin enshroud the palate. Blue/purplish fruit, grilled herbs, gravel, chocolate and leather add to a feeling of gravitas. The 2020 has plenty of depth, and yet it feels rather monolithic. There is no flow here, the wine feels static.

vinous.com

65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cask sample.
Deep and reserved at present but a dark-fruit nuance and the aromatic complexity is there. Vibrant palate, fine and persistent, the tannins building in a linear way. Lovely balance and freshness. Real wine with ageing potential. Could be the best yet. (JL)