2016 Chateau Figeac

Positively ancient in wine terms, Chateau Figeac has a history of grape growing going back to Roman times. Once a large estate of 200 hectares, various divisions over the years, most notably selling the parcel that would become Chateau Cheval Blanc, the estate now covers 37 hectares and is planted to 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc, and 30% Merlot. The high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon is rare on the Right Bank, and owes to the soil being a mainly fine gravel base, and the resultant wine requires at least mid-term cellaring to soften.

Other Reviews....
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.
97+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

The 2016 Figeac was bottled at the end of July 2018, since Frédéric Faye wanted to give the wine more time in barrel to develop more harmony. The stunning 24-carat bouquet rivets you to the spot with brilliant delineation and mineral-rich red fruit that articulates its terroir as well as any Right Bank you will find. The palate is medium-bodied with svelte tannin, perfect acidity, wonderfully integrated new oak and enormous depth toward the fresh, pencil-box- and cedar-infused finish. This is a classic Figeac, up there with the 1947 and 1949, both recently re-tasted and testifying to a wine that genuinely belongs among the elite Saint-Émilions. Faye believes it is the best Figeac he has ever made. He is correct.
100 points
Neal Martin - Vinous

The 2016 Figeac is simply extraordinary. A wine of pure energy and vitality, the 2016 pulses with a real sense of drive. Lavender, mint, crème de cassis and cedar start to develop in the glass, but what is most remarkable about the 2016 is its total sense of harmony. There is natural tension, a sort of push and pull, between the wine's intense fruit and structural underpinnings that makes the 2016 a marvel to taste and contemplate. It was positively stunning in two separate tastings. Technical Director Frédéric Faye and his team made an epic Figeac in 2016.
98+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

This is a very linear and driven Figeac with smooth and fine tannins. Full-bodied, yet compact and reserved. Blackberry, chocolate and hazelnut flavors. Direct and structured. A blend of 38 per cent cabernet sauvignon, 36 per cent merlot, and 26 per cent cabernet franc. Better after 2024.
96 points
James Suckling