Chateau Figeac Premier Grand Cru Classe A, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2014

Here is a 2014 that entices with its aromatic subtlety for a core of spicy black fruit. The attack is lively, and although the palate has a moderately dense structure to it, the tannins are still a bit firm at this stage. A hint of bell pepper and tobacco on the finish amplifies an impression of freshness on the long, airy finish. This is a lovely wine possessing real terroir expression.

Drink 2024 - 2035

The 2014 Figeac builds on its promise from barrel and delivers a very fulfilling bouquet with red plum, crushed strawberry, cedar and light graphite aromas that I suspect will close down for a period after bottling. The bottle tasted at the château displayed a subtle incense aroma.)

The palate is very well defined with a crisp line of acidity, sorbet fresh in the mouth and fanning out towards its structured, tensile finish. It is a great Figeac, a superb forerunner to the brilliant 2015 and it should not be underestimated. Chapeau winemaker Frédéric Faye and his team. Tasted twice both in London and at the property) with consistent notes.

Drink 2022 - 2045

The open nose of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry and bitter chocolate pulls you into this ample St.-Emilion with a satisfying interplay of sweet fruit and moderately dry tannins. It has only just shaken off the first phase of youthful effusiveness but still has plenty of life left. Long, quite dry finish with a delicate mint-chocolate note. 

Drink or hold

On the palate, the subdued fruit on the attack is a reminder that the right bank struggled in 2014 to achieve the same level of success as the exceptional 2015s and 2016s. But this is not a wine to dismiss in any way.

A blend of 40% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Cabernet Franc, there is dark cassis fruit here, with well-worked silky tannins and a restrained elegance that is given a smile by a coffee bean and smoked almond edge. 

A well-placed wine, working cleverly within its confines, not overstepping them, with huge potential for enjoyment. Drink in six to eight years, which needs to soften a little.

Drink 2022 - 2038