Served in magnum, this represents a classic Bordeaux vintage that saw average temperatures and rainfall. You had to be patient before the 2004 Figeac came around. This wine had touches of band aid on the nose at first, but that cleared to reveal clove and black pepper spice, undergrowth and black truffle, as well as cedar and sweet fruits. There is still structure and freshness here. It's a classic cool climate, old school Bordeaux with real charm. Made with 100% new oak. Drinking Window: 2019 - 2032
Tasted by: Jane Anson (at Ritz Carlton, Shanghai, 16 Nov 2019)
Part of Château Figeac: Tasting wines from 1985 to 2016

Although it was my favorite decade for this Saint-Émilion, the 2004 Figeac has always quietly impressed with its quality. This ex-château bottle, opened for my wedding anniversary, shows beautifully at 15 years old. Still deep in color with modest bricking on the rim, it has a seductive bouquet of black fruit, mulberry, graphite and fireside hearth. Decanting for three hours clearly benefits the aromatics, which leap in intensity with aeration. The palate is classic Figeac, equidistant between Left and Right Bank in style, touches of dark chocolate and clove infusing the dark berry fruit. The tannins have softened since I last tasted this wine, rendering it perfectly drinkable now, although it will easily give another 15 years of pleasure. Tasted at home.

I like the nose here with its blend of flowers, tobacco, bright red fruits, cigar box and mint. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, crisp and crunchy with a lot of bite in the finish. Tasted Sept 2020