"The 1989 Vieux Château Certan is a commonly seen vintage. This last bottle is consistent with previous notes. It has an entrancing, inviting bouquet of luscious mulberry entwined with clove and cedar, and later on suggestions of chestnut and Earl Grey. I recommend decanting the 1989, as it always benefits from aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, still quite backward and with good grip. Opens with aeration to offer captivating garrigue-tinged black fruit that lingers in the mouth. This is always a pleasure." -Vinous
Robert Parker
RP94
"The 1989 Vieux Château Certan has long been one of my favorite wines of that decade. The bouquet shows no signs of relinquishing that title with gorgeous black truffle, bay leaf, warm gravel and briary scents that are simply beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine line of acidity, "warm earth" on the entry, leather and truffle, great depth here with sublime precision on the finish, which is bridled with hints of mushroom and cloves. Maybe this is reaching its peak? Then again, it shows absolutely no signs of reaching the end of its plateau. This is nothing short of a wondrous Pomerol from Alexandre Thienpont."
Wine Spectator
WS93
"Here is another ultraripe nose, showing dried fruits and treacle tar aromas. Full-bodied, with very ripe flavors of dried beef, raisin and spices, verging on rustic. Impressive palate. Yes, this is a little dry and tannic, even austere, but I love the opulence."
