Chateau Figeac 2013

Chateau Figeac is a Premier Grand Cru Classe in the St. Emillion classification of 2012-13. The vineyard is unusual, in that it tends to be gravel based, without the clay and sand found in many other St. Emillion vineyards. In addition, the wine is unusual, in that it is made up of 35% Cabernet Sauvignon 35% Cabernet Franc and the balance Merlot, which is not at all a common blend. The percentage of both Cabernet grapes are far higher than is normally seen in St. Emillion. One result of the "cepage" is that the wines of Chateau Figeac tend to age very well, while also being rich and elegant.

Dark purple red with violet hues. Expressive and complex nose of blackberries and blackcurrants. Elegant balanced toasted oak aromas, with hints of graphite and spices. On the palate it shows excellent length, complex flavour and balanced tannins. 

91 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate    The final blend, from yields of 36 hectoliters per hectare, is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. With an average alcohol of 13%, the wine is outstanding and probably, for me, the best Figeac in many a year - even though it is from a difficult vintage. A tribute to not only Madame Manoncourt, but to Jean-Valmy Nicolas and Michel Rolland. The wine is a dense ruby/purple with a beautiful nose of creme de cassis, cedar wood and a touch of tobacco leaf. The wine is medium-bodied and has opulence on the attack, after which tannins kick in. This exhibits good purity and far more texture and depth than about any recent Figeac has possessed. A wine that was over-cropped, picked underripe and simply a major underperformer for such a great terroir. It should drink well for 10-15 years. 

91 Points - James Suckling    A balanced, silky wine for the vintage, with mineral, currant, licorice and light spice. Medium body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. I like the hints of sweet tobacco, too. Very different blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc; in a normal year, it’s one third of each.