Château Figeac, 1er Grand Cru Classé, St Emilion, 2021

Tasting Note:

Figeac has become a J&B favourite whilst under the watchful eye of Frédéric Faye. Once the great estate that dominated viticulture between Libourne and St Emilion, this chateau is back where it belongs at the top table. He hasn't tried to change the DNA, but he has implemented many refinements to get the very best out of this unique terroir. The final piece of the jigsaw was the opening of their new cellars. 2021 was the first vintage to be vinified in this facility. The assemblage is still Negroniesque, in 2021, the final blend is 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc and 29% Merlot. Harvest took a full month to complete, but this labour of love was certainly worth the effort! Expressive Cabernet aromas emerge from the glass: cassis, strawberries, flowers, tobacco and stony minerality. The palate has admirable precision and energy. There's a sinewiness to the fruit and an intensely graphite finish. It feels strict, but is surrounded by just enough fleshy fruit and very fine tannins. If it continues to flesh out during elevage, it will be outstanding. 8% press wine, 13% alc.