Chateau Figeac 2016: A powerful and long Saint-Emilion with an explosive finish
Chateau Figeac is a B Classified First Growth produced in Saint-Emilion. The vines are on average 40 years old and planted on 40 hectares of gunzian gravel. Wine is aged in new oak barrels for 15-18 months. Chateau Figeac 2016 is a blend of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc.
2016 was a very hot and extremely dry summer. The quality of Figeac's terroir protected the vines from any complications during the maturation process. The 40 mm of rain in September allowed the berries to reach their full potential. Harvest took place from September 23rd to October 20th.
Chateau Figeac 2016 has a deep black-cherry colour with magenta reflections. The colour is an indicator of the black fruit that are present in the nose. After aeration, one can discover blackberries and blueberries with notes of ginger, cedar and elegant floral aromas. The wine has a luxurious structure, with a fresh and creamy attack. The wine has rich, noble tannins and has flavours of graphite. The graphite is a quality of the terroir. Chateau Figeac 2016 is precise, balanced, fresh and gourmet. The finish is powerful, long and intense. A great Figeac.
Parker : 97+ / 100
J. Robinson : 18,5 / 20
Wine Advocate-Parker :
The 2016 Figeac is comprised of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is a little broody and reticent at this very youthful stage, slowly unfolding to reveal profound plum preserves, crème de cassis, black raspberries and star anise with hints of moss-covered bark, truffles and tilled loam plus a waft of red currants and raspberry leaves sparks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is practically quivering with energy, offering glimpses at tightly wound black fruit and mineral/ferrous layers, framed by very firm, ripe tannins and wonderful tension, finishing long with the spices coming through. This will need a good 7-8 years to come round and then should cellar for 40+ years. Very serious, beautifully poised and sophisticated personality this vintage.