1961 Figeac

The 1961 Figeac is a vintage that I have encountered several times in the past. This is a fabulous example from a period when it was firing on all cylinders under Thierry Manoncourt. Deep in colour, it has a magnificent and multi-dimensional bouquet with stunning definition, intoxicating aromas of dark berries, cedar, over-ripe apricot and bay leaf. You just want to lose yourself here. The palate is fresh and elegant, the Cabernet Franc perhaps a little more heightened compared to previous bottles with a perfectly knitted, almost sumptuous finish. Tasted at the 1961 dinner Chairman Miaow’s in Hong Kong.

Tasted at the Château Figeac vertical at the property. I have tasted the 1961 Château Figeac just once before, when it only intimated a great wine. This bottle proves it. Clear and deep in color, it has a heavenly bouquet that is not dissimilar to the 1964: very concentrated with mulberry, dried honey, molasses and stewed apricots. Magnifique! The palate is medium-bodied and perfectly balanced, perhaps less rounded than the 1964, but driven along by perfectly judged acidity with black truffle and salted licorice surfacing towards the structured and sustained finish. I suspect that there is some variability between bottles, judging by others' comments, but clearly if it is your lucky day, you are in for a treat. Tasted June 2015.

Great density of blackish ruby. Menthol note. Rich, sweet and really intense. Still tight and not fully formed! Amazing youth and structure. Long, throat-warming. (JR)