2003 Château Figeac
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Tasting notes
Tasted at the Château Figeac vertical at the property from magnum, the 2003 Figeac is a commendable Right Bank for the vintage, but in the company of other vintages, its shortcomings are all too obvious. Firstly, it looks more mature than vintages from the 1990s. Then the nose is mulchy, fungal and fully mature with a nagging vegetal note. The palate has a "gritty" entry, the acidity nicely realized, though there is some dryness on the finish that is jarring and leaves you feeling unfulfilled. I've tasted far worse Saint Emilion 2003s, but I would be inclined to drink this sooner rather than later. Tasted June 2015.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Magnum. Blackish ruby. Edgy. Lots of evolution and sweetness, less fresh than 2005 and 2006 vintages tasted before this. Very sweet and full and full-blown. Just slightly tarry on the end. Warm minerals. (JR)
Notably dark ruby with quite a bit of evolution. Not the aromatic focus of some vintages. Round and no sign of excess heat nor excess tannins (though they do insist on the end of the palate eventually). A strong Cabernet hint on the nose. For I think the first time ever I am moved to use the term 'flavourful'. Good zestiness. But not much intensity. Easy – and I can't see it improving. Just a little gawky. I'm torn between 16.5 and 17 as a score… I'd pour it straight from the bottle; aeration does not improve it. (JR)
Deep garnet. Ripe, warm and spicy. Plum and blueberry and not overripe. Then very attractive on the palate: smooth and rounded and friendly and just enough freshness on the end. Long. (JH)
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.