Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
75cl * 13.5% ABV * St-Émilion, Bordeaux
With a higher proportion of Cabernet varieties (35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc) than any other St-Émilion property, an elegant, structured style and a classic, grand château, Chateau Figeac is justifiably known as the 'Médoc of St Émilion'. The property's history is linked to another Premier Grand Cru Classé: in the 1830s, a choice 30-hectare plot from Figeac's vineyard was sold and 20 years later became the illustrious Cheval Blanc.
Of all Saint Émilion's wines, Château Figeac is considered to be the one most in the Médoc style. The reason is that, unlike most of the appellation's other Premier Grand Crus Classés, which are situated on clay-limestone soil, Château Figeac benefits from gravelly soil, similar to that in the Médoc. This geological configuration, so unusual for Saint Émilion, gives Figeac an exceptional elegance. Tannic and yet seductive even in its first youth, Figeac's wine then evolves a refined, silky, concentrated, rich character, with subtle aromas of cedar, black fruit and mint.
Drinking Window: 2018 - 2040
"Dark ruby in colour, this is a Figeac that captures the 'Left Bank' spirit that you often find in this wine. It majors on Cabernet Sauvignon-led tobacco leaf, cassis and blueberry fruits, with touches of salted caramel on the finish. Good juice on the finish, plenty of structure to the tannins still." 93 Points, Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com (March 2022)
"The 2006 Figeac is a success for what was a modest Right Bank vintage...This is a fine Figeac destined to give a couple of decade's worth of pleasure. Drink: 2017 - 2035" 91 Points, Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (August 2016)
"Very impressive aromas of blackberry and coffee follow through to medium- to full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a long finish." 89/91 Points James Suckling, WineSpectator.com (March 2007)
"This elegant, precocious, surprisingly soft, up-front-styled St.-Emilion possesses a dark ruby/purple color as well as sweet aromas of menthol, fruitcake, cherries, and black currants. Round and medium-bodied with silky tannins and a sensual, evolved, precocious style, it can be enjoyed over the next 10-14 years." 90 Points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (February 2009)