Chateau Figeac   Chateau Figeac

2017 Chateau Figeac

By Chateau Figeac

The 2017 Chateau Figeac from Chateau Figeac, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

The 2017 vintage of the iconic Chateau Figeac from Chateau Figeac stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this venerable Saint-Émilion estate. Navigating a year marked by frosts, the team's expert management has yielded a vintage with distinct attributes that set it apart in the storied lineage of Figeac wines.

 

A Vintage Shaped by Challenge and Character

In 2017, Bordeaux did not have an easy run. The region faced climatic trials that put the mettle of its varietals to the test. At Chateau Figeac, such tribulations were met with grace and precision, ensuring that the vintage bore fruit—literally—that would rise above expectation. The blend, predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc, mirrors Chateau Figeac’s unique terroir and historical preference towards Cabernet.

 

Investment Merit and Maturation Profile

For investors seeking a wine that balances approachability with ageworthy complexity, the 2017 Chateau Figeac is a compelling choice. Its current state presents an ensemble of vibrant dark fruit intertwined with sophisticated tannins—a profile promising further magnificence as it matures. Savvy aficionados and investors alike will note that this particular vintage, given its weather-induced limited yield, may well advance to become one of the more elusive treasured finds in future years.

The wine articulates the multilayered personality of Saint-Émilion’s terroir through its structured frame and aromatic top notes suggestive of spice-laden earthiness concurrently aligned with more ethereal whispers of florality—an intriguing dichotomy crafted from adversity.

In sum, the 2017 Chateau Figeac articulately expresses the combination of dedication and terroir mastery for which Chateau Figeac is renowned. Capturing both the quintessential structure expected from Saint-Émilion and the unique characteristics dictated by the year's climatic narrative, it stands as a strategic addition to any fine wine portfolio. As time unfolds, I anticipate this particular expression to reveal greater depths—only enhancing its investment allure and sensory reward.

Market price (CAD)

$2,413.24

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

90.63

Scores and tasting notes

95-96

This is a dense and layered red with blackberries, blueberries and hints of hazelnuts. Full-bodied, very tight and focused. Impressive young tannins. Velvety texture. Very pretty to taste. Juicy and delicious. 43% merlot, 47% caberent sauvignon and 10% cabernet franc. Less franc than normal due to the frost.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com

94-97

The 2017 Figeac is magnificent. Beautifully layered and exquisite in the glass, the 2017 possesses remarkable balance and harmony from the very first taste. An utterly beguiling, captivating wine, the 2017 simply has it all. Bright, red-toned fruit, mint, spice, lavender and rose petal overtones flesh out in the glass, but above all else, Figeac is a wine of total harmony. The Grand Vin includes 10% second generation fruit. Even so, production is down around 50%.

Antonio Galloni - Antonio Galloni - vinous.com - May '18

95

Production was down by half this year—only producing 55,000 bottles. Made from 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Figeac gives up expressive notes of black cherries, plum preserves, black raspberries and kirsch, giving way to hints of dried leaves, cinnamon toast and warm cassis plus a waft of lavender. Medium-bodied, the palate has wonderful vibrancy with a refreshing line cutting through the crunchy black fruits and a firm, finely grained frame, finishing long and spicy.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 16 March 2020

94-96

The 2017 Figeac is composed of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Very deep garnet-purple in color, the nose sings of Cabernet Sauvignon—bright crushed black currants, blackberries and wild blueberries with wafts of lilacs, pencil shavings, tobacco, tilled earth plus a hint of bay leaves. The medium-bodied mouth is fine, elegant, minerally and incredibly vivacious with tons of energy. Bright and refreshing with firm, grainy tannins and a provocative hint of chew, it finishes with great length. This should age wonderfully. 100% new oak was used for this sample and it is very well-integrated.

Wine Advocate - Lisa Perrotti-Brown - robertparker.com

92-95

Bright and fresh, offering lovely cassis and black cherry notes sitting atop a sleek iron spine. Floral and savory details run throughout. Shows a refined structure. Sneakily long, with persistent fruit.—J.M.

Wine Spectator - James Molesworth - winespectator.com

93-95

The 2017 Figeac was picked from 7 September to 3 October at 22hl/ha (average across frosted and non-frosted parcels) with 13.5° alcohol. It has a deep purple hue. The bouquet is very well defined, quite strict at first with well-behaved blackberry, raspberry, pressed rose petals and just a touch of violet. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine backbone, fresh in the mouth with a sense of energy, quite precise and linear with a pinch of spice towards the finish, a little graphite lingering on the aftertaste. This is unapologetically classic in style and whilst it might be over-shadowed by the sensational 2015 and 2016 Figeac, this is an impressive follow-up to that might pair that has really put Figeac back on the map.

Neal Martin - Neal Martin - vinous.com - May '18

Vintage performance