2005 Ch. Figeac, St Emilion

Horizontal Tasting of 2005s on 12/11/09.  Because of its high proportion of Cabernets, Figeac is always the most restrained (and sometimes misunderstood) of the best St. Emilions, with a lacy quality in lighter years, but with a beguiling presentation in the best.  In 2005 the wine has majestic harmony for, although the tannins are exceptional, they are also perfectly ripened.  The finish is lifted by a creamy, fresh acidity whilst the multitude of scents and flavours of black fruit, leather, dried spice and liquorice swirl and ascend on the palate.  This is an impeccable Figeac, almost accessible now, but glorious in 10 years (and for many more after that).
(Mark Pardoe MW, BBR Wholesale - Tasted at the St Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes Cellar Tasting, 03/12/09 )

Fabulously fine and ripe tannins coat this intense kernel of highly defined fruit. Screamingly good and in direct competition in quality terms with St Emilion rivals 10 times the price. The only downside is you cant really open it up now and get on with it...very frustrating! However have a little bit of patience and tuck it away with your other 05's and you're in for a total treat. Sumptuous!
(Simon Staples - Fine Wine Director - 25-Oct-2008)

Dark purplish crimson. Looks younger than many. Very solid and intriguing on the nose. Much less developed than most. Full and bloody on the palate entry–very dry – quite a different build, Angelus and Figeac are chalk and cheese…. Extremely dry rather than sweet. Firm tannins. Needs lots and lots of time.
(Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com - 10-Dec-2007)

The finest Figeac since the 1990 and 1982, the restrained, but complex 2005 exhibits notes of black olives, new saddle leather, tobacco leaf, and sweet cherry and black currant fruit. The wine is medium-bodied with racy tannins as well as a streamlined style built on finesse and delicacy rather than on power and concentration. Consume it over the next 15-20 years.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Apr-2008)