Background

Figeac is a very ancient estate, going back at least as far as the 2nd century AD, during the Gallo-Roman period, when a certain Figeacus gave his name to a villa he built on this location. Figeac is owned by Thierry Manoncourt and is located in the north-west of the appellation with its vineyards adjoining those of Cheval Blanc. Its 40 hectares of vineyards (Cabernet Sauvignon 35%, Merlot 30%, Cabernet Franc 35%) lie on a deep, Médoc-like gravel topsoil ('Graves') over a flinty, iron-rich subsoil. with the vines averaging about 35 years of age and sitting at a density of 6000 vines/ha. Evidence for this selection of varieties comes not from mere opinion, but from the work of Thierry Manoncourt who, for many decades, would bottle some of the Figeac wines unblended so that he could assess how wines from different grape varieties and different portions of the vineyard matured in bottle.

Tasting notes

Blackcurrant, Blackberry, Dark cherry, Cassis, Tobacco leaf, hints of truffle.

Winemaking

In the vat room, a gentle, sulphur-free vinification was carried out according to the phenolic ripeness of the grapes. Each vat had its own vinification itinerary in order to bring out the best in this great vintage. The raw material was treated with great respect and never forced.

Food pairings

Steak Frite, Rib of beef with roast vegetables and gravy.