CHATEAU-FIGEAC, 1er Grand Cru Classé de Saint-Emilion, is one of the largest estates in the appellation, with 54 hectares of which 40 are planted with vines and 14 hectares dedicated to biodiversity. Produced from younger vines than its elder brother, PETIT-FIGEAC is produced by the same teams and to the same exacting standards.
The 2016 vintage will go down as the year of all exceptions, with weather conditions unlike any other and a singular vegetative cycle. Winter was marked by the hottest temperatures since 1900, with heavy rainfall. This continued into spring, helping to build up a good water reserve. As the weeks went by, summer became stronger, with exceptional sunshine and several heat waves. Despite the heat, Figeac’s deep roots ensured a good water supply, and the vineyard continued to ripen. Rain arrived on the evening of September 13, after several months of drought. Around 40 mm of water in Figeac brought just the right proportion, the right balance of sugar and the perfect level of acidity, pointing to superb quality potential.
A long harvest stretched out at Figeac, from September 23 to October 10 for Merlot, from October 12 to 20 for Cabernet Franc and from October 11 to 20 for Cabernet Sauvignon. The perfectly ripe grapes were the fruit of constant hard work by the Figeac team in the face of atypical conditions.
PETIT-FIGEAC 2016 is a blend of 41% Cabernet Franc, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot. PETIT-FIGEAC 2016 has a brilliant, deep ruby-red color. It offers a floral nose with notes of carnations mixed with pleasant aromas of red fruits, wild blackberries, licorice and spicy scents. The attack is round and elegant, with a touch of minerality. The texture is particularly silky. The wine reveals lovely ripe fruit, blueberries, blackcurrants and black cherries.
The tannins are velvety and exceptionally well-coated. The finish is interminable and airy, carried by the fruit. The balance of this second wine is remarkable. PETIT-FIGEAC 2016 is an elegant wine combining freshness and fruit expression, a wine of pleasure to enjoy and share. A worthy reflection of the Grand Vin in an exceptional vintage.
PETIT-FIGEAC 2016 IS ON SALE IN WINE SHOPS AT AN AVERAGE PRICE OF €65 EX VAT.
