Château Certan De May, Pomerol,

A touch of austerity evident now tasting in bottle, suggesting that there is a bigger tannic structure here than in many Pomerol 2021s, and this has a restrained but enjoyable sense of concentration to the red and blue fruits,with bitter chocolate and smoked fennel on the finish. Acidity still shows the fingerprint of the vintage balanced by slate texture and an extended finish with a jucy, well finessed sign off. Harvest September 27 to October 11. Clay gravel soils.

The 2021 Certan de May is composed of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it charges out of the gate with vibrant kirsch, black cherry preserves, and black raspberries scents, plus hints of lilacs and dark chocolate. Medium-bodied, the palate is bright and sparkly with soft tannins and a vibrant finish laced with red berries.

"A step in the right direction." Those were my sentiments toward the 2021 Certan de May from barrel. Now in bottle, the nose is disappointing, missing fruit intensity and for want of a better word, just a bit anonymous, showing only touches of autumn leaves and earth. The palate is thankfully better, with more depth and fruit concentration than I might have expected. The acidity is well-judged with good body and no herbaceousness toward the finish. Perhaps the aromatics were just closed on the day? Jury's out, but I remain open-minded and keep my fingers crossed for next time.