2007 Ch. Figeac, St. Emilion

In a region with a worrying number of characterless, over-extracted, fruit bombs Ch. Figeac stands out like a shining beacon. In 2007 it has made another intellectual, aristocratic St Emilion from a Médoc-like blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. A fine, stylish, Dundee fruitcake nose is followed by a palate with lots of stuffing for the vintage. Boasting rich plum and blackberry fruit and coffee hints and an attractive streak of minerality, the elegant fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity ensure a glorious future. A real tour-de-force from this illustrious and revitalised estate.

"Very deep crimson. Toasty nose with a hint of oak. Very fresh fruit, pretty sleek texture and just a little too much sweet oak in evidence at this point. A hint of green on the finish. Pretty inky and fades fast. More transparent than most with a very nice gentle finish. Very `relaxed'. Doubtless it will improve in bottle as Figeac always seems to do so miraculously." (Jancis Robinson – www.jancisrobinson.com – Apr 08)

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Gentle raspberry, red fruit expression on the nose and palate with the oak just a little imposing in this sample. There's freshness and length in what appears to be a fairly soft, mid-weight wine.
James Lawther MW