One-third each of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, 100% new oak, with a harvest that lasted from 17 September to 6 October. Still deep in colour, and is given a huge boost by the Cabernets. The high sugar and low acidity comes through to give some ripe, almost overripe character with figs and rich berry jam notes. Gentle cold ash and menthol freshness work wonders at the close of play, giving a real boost to the length of the wine on the finish. Drinking Window 2018 - 2030
Tasted by Jane Anson (at 67 Pall Mall, London, 26 Oct 2018)
Part of Bordeaux 1989 vs 1990: Battle of the vintages

The 1990 Figeac has been variable over the years, perhaps some bottles showing some brettanomyces? My last bottle was definitely one of the best. Deep in colour, it has a very expressive Cabernet component. Black truffle, Earl grey and cigar humidor scents gain momentum in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied, a little leathery on the entry with loose-knit, maybe even slightly rustic red fruit. This is not a finely-tuned Figeac, yet it is full of charm. There is just a mote of dryness on the finish, suggesting that it might well be reaching the end of its drinking plateau. Tasted at a private dinner in Bordeaux.

Full red. Initially cool aromas of cherry, blackberry, minerals, iron and menthol; an initial musty note dissipated with aeration. Sweet, supple and layered, with a deeply spicy cabernet component. Lovely ripe acids give clarity to the very rich flavors. Finishes with superb firmness and persistence. An excellent vintage for Figeac. Drink between 2005 and 2020.

This is a strong effort for Figeac, but the wine is fully mature and is beginning to fade slightly. It offers a terrific bouquet of roasted herbs, cedarwood, licorice, sweet cherries, and background foresty/underbrush notes, a fleshy attack, medium body, sweet fruit, and plenty of glycerin, but the tannins provide a pinched finish that evaporates quickly leaving only astringency. This wine tires within 45 minutes of opening, so it needs to be drunk over the next 4-5 years, if not sooner. And, do not over-aerate!

A really lovely wine with oodles of charm and interest. Some orange at the rim – very slight. Sweet and welcoming on the nose with the merest hint of dried fruit but completely luscious on the palate. Really very rich and competent and complete. Fills the palate completely. Meaty. Long and fresh on the end. Health juice. Drink now - 2036
JR - August 2018