2012 Figeac (St-Emilion)

The dark ruby/garnet/plum-colored 2012 Figeac is somewhat angular (no doubt because the Cabernet Sauvignon was not as ripe as it could have been), but it possesses an attractive, cedary, underbrush, Christmas fruitcake, black cherry and black currant-scented nose. Elegant and medium-weight with good purity as well as a slightly narrow finish, it is a very good to excellent Figeac that should drink well for 12-15 years. 86-88 points

Dark rich crimson. Lively fruit on the nose. Silky entry with up-front fruit. Suave, average body full of flavours and lift. Good length and refined tannins. Things are looking up again for Figeac – and it is a relief. 90 points

Recently appointed consultant, Michel Rolland, has vowed to help elevate Figeac to the same level as Saint Emilion’s Premiers Grands Crus Classés (A). If so, he has less work to do than he might imagine, as this is a very impressive Saint Emilion, boasting deep colour, plush fruit, some Cabernet Sauvignon freshn ess and backbone, fine tannins and appealing minerality and palate length. Drink. 2020-30. 94 points

Michel Rolland made the blend of the 2012. 40% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon (the 2010 was one-third of each grape variety.) It has a dark purple colour. The nose is bashful at first, well defined with expressive Cabernet Sauvignon imparting subtle cedar and mint aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with an edge entry defined by slightly chalky tannins. There is a touch for Schezhuan pepper at the tip of the tongue and to be honest, it is missing a little weight on the mid-palate due to the growing season. It has a little more harmony on the finish than previous year, maintaining the fresh Figeac style, but with more composure. Bodes well for the future.