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Château Certan de May 2014 is recognised as one of the very best wines produced in the Pomerol wine-growing region on Bordeaux’s right bank. It is situated in the east of the appellation on Pomerol’s prized central plateau, surrounded by illustrious neighbours such as Vieux Château Certan and La Fleur-Pétrus.
The origins of the estate date back to the 16th century when the Scottish de May family were gifted the estate by royal decree as a gesture of thanks for services rendered to the crown of France. Winemaking at Chateau Certan de May began in the 18th century and would remain in the de May family until 1925, when it was acquired by the Barreau family. Today, the estate is run by director and co-owner Jean-Luc Barreau. The wines were vinified under the guidance of renowned consultants Michel Rolland until 2012, and by Jean-Claude Berrouet from the 2013 vintage, ensuring the estate has the best winemaking expertise available.
The estate comprises 5.5 hectares (13.5 acres) of vineyards planted on clay and deep gravel soils, typical of the appellation, which helps impart structure, freshness, and complexity to the wines. The vineyards are planted with 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon with an average age of 45 years.
Merlot thrives particularly well in clay soils, producing rich, velvety wines with aromas of black fruit, truffle and chocolate. Cabernet Franc brings tannic structure and spicy notes, while Cabernet Sauvignon contributes to the wines’ longevity and complexity. The terroir, combined with respectful viticultural practices and meticulous vinification, allows the estate to produce wines that improve with age, while fully expressing their origin.
Manual harvest at Château Certan de May ensures rigorous bunch selection.
Harvested grapes are quickly transported to the winery to prevent oxidation, ensuring they arrive in the best condition.
Wines ferment for 4–6 weeks in stainless steel vats.
Regular pumping gives an even maceration, extracting phenolic compounds, aromas, and colour.
Wines age for 18 months in oak barrels, with approximately 30% new oak.
Approximately 2,000 cases are produced per vintage.
Château Certan de May 2014 has a deep ruby hue with garnet edges, signalling a vibrant yet mature core.
Its expressive nose reveals softened black cherry, dried plum, and cassis, layered with graphite, truffle, and damp earth, accented by dried violet, liquorice, smoky oak, and subtle thyme and bay leaf notes, reflecting Pomerol’s clay-gravel terroir.
On the palate, this medium to full-bodied wine is polished and harmonious, with silky tannins, vibrant blackberry and blueberry fruit, and savoury black tea, leather, and mineral-driven graphite, lifted by fresh acidity for a creamy texture.
The long, smooth finish lingers with dark fruit, spice, and iron-like minerality, offering a refined, velvety grip that promises further evolution.
Pairs beautifully with roasted duck, venison or grilled lamb.
For a vegetarian option, try it with mushroom risotto or aged cheeses like Comté.
2014 Vintage
95 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, February 2017
90 Points – Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com, November 2017
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