Chateau Figeac

One of the great names and terroirs of Saint Emilion whose wines exude class and sophistication rather than raw power. Unusually for the right bank there is only 30% Merlot in the vineyard with 35% Cabernet Franc and - rare on the right bank - 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. After two stunning vintages in 2015 and 2016 Figeac was one of the hottest properties in Bordeaux and much expectation was garnered for the 2018 - it did not disappoint. Winemaker Frederic Faye compares this wine to his magnificent 2016 but describes it as being "more crystalline and focussed".

‍

Wine Enthusiast gave this vintage the perfect score of 100/100 and describes it as dense and with immense structure balanced by stunning black fruits that give impressive promise. They believe this powerful wine is probably the greatest ever produced from this estate. The 2018 Château Figeac offers a terrific perfume of crème de cassis, redcurrants, dried earth, tobacco, lead pencil, spring flowers, and exotic spice-driven nuances. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it's flawlessly balanced, has silky, polished tannins, and a stunning sense of purity. It is pure, elegant, haut couture-like style and it doesn't show a hint of its 100% new oak élevage. Give the bottles a minimum 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 20-30 years. It's not the biggest or richest Saint- Emilion, yet the balance, finesse, and elegance are something to behold.

Food Pairing:

All types of classic meat dishes, veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, game, roast chicken, roasted, braised, and grilled dishes. James Suckling is also known to pair Figeac with Asian inspired dishes such as tuna and duck noodles.

‍

Decanting time:

1.5 hours

‍

Ageing Potential:

Whilst the 2018 Figeac is already approachable, it will enter is drinking window in late 2025 and will continue to age and even improve till 2035.

‍

Ratings:

100/100 Wine Enthusiast

98/100 James Suckling

98/100 Decanter Magazine

97/100 Robert Parker

18/20 Jancis Robinson