Shows good density, with a solid core of plum paste, currant preserves and cherry confiture, pushed by lively acidity and an ebullient tobacco note on the finish. One of the appellation’s most consistent values in recent vintages. —J.M.

There is a trace of herbaceousness in the aromatics and flavors of this dense blue/purple-colored 2012, which kept my score from going slightly higher. This biodynamically farmed property, which is well situated in the Figeac sector of St.-Emilion, consists of 35 acres, and is managed by the wife of Stephane Derenoncourt, Christine, who has produced a final blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc that achieved 13.5% natural alcohol. The wine exhibits lots of tobacco leaf, blueberry and black raspberry aromas followed by a medium-bodied, richly fruity, surprising full St.-Emilion. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. Drink: 2013 - 2028

[80M/20CF] Ripe, sweet fruit to smell, almost cassisy; a juicy core with moderately firm tannin, but nothing excessive; very attractive ripe fruit, nice length to taste, an attractive succulence, moderate complexity and gently scented, warm length. Very good Tour Figeac which, in this sample, showed well next to its 2010! [M.Schuster, Bordeaux Mar/Apr 2013]

Some berry and mineral character with an herbal undertone. Medium-to-full body, with velvety tannins.

Drink 2016-2022 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc. Smells of ripe red fruit and wild strawberries with just a slight herbaceousness underneath, though the latter gets stronger with aeration. A touch stalky on the palate but fresh and not overly dry. (JH)