2009 Chateau Figeac, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Magnum (1.5L)

JA98 "Right up there with the best of the Right Bank, this opens with a punnet of blackberry and creamy damson fruits, all in balance, finessed but confident and juicy, cocoa bean, espresso, cumin and black pepper spice, hard to fault and extremely easy to recommend. Harvest September 22 to October 19, 40hl/h yield, 100% new oak. As an aside, this was leading up to the 2012 classification, and wines like this explain why they were so confident that they were going to get the nod to Premier Grand Cru Classé A (in the end they had to wait 10 more years). "

JS97 Even in this super-ripe vintage Figeac retains its usual red bell pepper aroma (from the cabernet sauvignon grape) and that adds a light touch to the opulent fruit cake and spice character. The full fine tannins beautifully support the rich palate and make the finish very long and plush. A great 2009!