1989 Figeac
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 1989 Figeac is poured from imperials direct from the château's reserves. This is showing slight bricking on the rim. The nose is pretty backward due mainly to the large format. Blackcurrant pastilles, liquorice, cedar and cloves blossom on the nose; the bouquet is fully mature and open, just decaying a little with aeration over the course of an evening. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins; a welcome splash of balsamic lends a little edge. There is a touch of rusticity, while the finish does not "kick on" as you might have hoped, hence my modest score for a great Right Bank growing season. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 1989 Figeac, picked September 11 to 29, was tasted with winemaker Frédéric Faye at the estate, although it was clearly not representative. Another bottle tasted a couple of weeks later in London chimes with my several previous encounters. Warm gravel, clove and a hint of licorice gradually unfurl on the nose, which is not overly complex and yet has rustic charm. That rusticity follows through on the palate, where hints of fennel and basil tinge the red fruit. Quite ferrous toward the finish, which is now just beginning to lose a bit of puff. Drink bottles over the next 10 years. Tasted at the estate and privately.
Exquisite old wine with sweet tobacco leaf, gorgeous fruit and hints of iodine and oyster shell. Full-bodied, yet so polished and refined. The tannins melt into the wine. So lovely, light and smooth. Glorious now.
About the producer
Sitting on the border with Pomerol, Ch. Figeac is a distinguished Saint-Emilion estate that produces some of the region's most sought-after wines. As of 2022, it is officially classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé A, one of the appellation's top estates along with Ch. Pavie.