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In the heart of the Pomerol, only a few rows of vines away from the famous church tower, is situated Vieux Château Certan, the oldest cru of the appellation. Since this time it has continued to affirm itself as one of the rarest and most prestigious Crus in the world. Vieux Chateau Certan is without doubt one of the most famous names in Pomerol, although in modern times it has not always received universal acclaim. In the early decades of the 20th century, however, it seems that Vieux Chateau Certan was generally accepted as producing the best wine in Pomerol. This is despite the fact that the chateau made wine which included a high percentage of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, rather than a wine based solely or almost entirely on Merlot as is more the norm for the right bank appellations of Pomerol and St Emilion. The plantings are composed of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The sumptuous brilliance of its colour, the exceptional wealth of aromas and the depth and subtlety of its taste give the wine a style unique to the Pomerol appellation. Even in very hot years, vintages generally known for their strength, no wine maintains its distinction and elegance so well. The wine of connoisseurs; Vieux Château Certan requires several years in a cellar to reveal its immense complexity and singular body.  Appellation: Pomerol Areas under Vine: 13.5 hectares Average Annual Production: 4,000 to 5,000 cases per annum Soil: clay and gravel soil Grape Varieties: Merlot (60%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) Ageing: 18-22 months in barrels (50% new) Top Vintages: 1948, 1952, 1961, 1964, 1975, 1989, 1990, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005