Chateau Figeac 2018

The depth and complexity of a Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classe

The estate

As a Premier Grand Cru Classe, Chateau-Figeac embodies the excellence of Saint-Emilion's fine wines throughout the world. Chateau-Figeac has belonged to the Manoncourt family since 1892.

The vineyard

Chateau-Figeac enjoys an exceptional location as it is situated to the west of the Saint-Emilion appellation, on the fringe of the Pomerol appellation. The estate's vineyard covers 40 hectares of vines that are planted on three different gravelly hills. Respect for biodiversity and the flora and fauna are at the very heart of the estate's concerns. The grape varieties are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

The vintage

Marked by significant weather variations, 2018 began with a cold and rainy winter followed by a wet spring. The stormy episodes along with the hail that occurred from May to mid-July did not impact the estate's vineyards. Throughout the summer, the weather conditions were very mild until the harvest. Sunny, dry and hot, the summer favored the optimum ripening of the grapes. The constant vigilance and know-how of Chateau-Figeac’s technical team ensured and enabled the vines to remain in excellent condition. Harvested from September 17th with the Merlot grapes and finishing on October 12th with the Cabernet grape varieties, the grapes showcase high sugar and polyphenol levels as well as very fine tannins.

The vinification and aging

Particular care and attention was provided to the fruit throughout the vinification process, with gentle extractions and low fermentation temperatures in order to preserve the freshness, aromatic complexity and balance of the juice.

The blend

This Chateau-Figeac 2018 accurately reflects the identity of each of the three grape varieties that make up its blend. The freshness and elegance of the Cabernet Franc grapes (30%) blends harmoniously with the finesse and smoothness of the Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) and the roundness of the Merlot grapes (37%).

Chateau-Figeac 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Color

Dark, intense purple color.

Nose

Expressive and complex, the nose gives off intense fruity (black and red berries) and floral fragrances.

Palate

Vibrant, the palate opens up to a powerful attack that gives way to a deliciously enfolding texture. Full of freshness, the mid-palate preserves a pleasant liveliness, highlighting the finesse of the tannins and the wine’s mineral elements. A fantastic vintage by Chateau-Figeac that resonates with the velvety character of the 2015 vintage and the finesse of 2016.