Figeac 2009 (750ML)

97 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "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! Drink or hold. (Horizontal Tasting, London, 2019)" 2/19

96 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "Distinctive, with atypical (for St.-Emilion) force and drive to the black currant, roasted cedar and maduro tobacco flavors, which are supported by a dense, loam-tinged structure. Terrific roasted espresso, ganache and fig paste notes wait in reserve. Very muscular, but with the cut for balance. Best from 2017 through 2035. 9,200 cases made." 03/12

97 Points, Jane Anson, Decanter: "This is an excellent vintage to drink now, with huge amounts of liquorice, cedar, crème caramel, bilberry and black cherry, with a fleshy texture to the fruit but just starting to show more tertiary notes of earth, crushed stone and soft mint on the finish. Feels like the pefect Right Bank take on a Left Bank, generous and open but with a steely core and tannins that remain sure to take this wine forward over many decades to come. This was Thierry Manoncourt's last full vintage, as he died in 2010 (his first had been 1947). " 03/17

95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com: "The 2009 Château Figeac is the normal blend of close to equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It's a beautiful wine that has classic Figeac style, yet is more reserved and backward than most in the vintage. Forest floor, truffle, blackcurrants, cigar ash and green tobacco notes all emerge from this full-bodied, ripe, yet pure, elegant Saint-Emilion that has good acidity and plenty of length. The tannins are ripe, yet firm, it's nicely balanced, and it blossoms with time in the glass. Nevertheless, it needs another 4-5 years of cellaring to hit prime time, and it should keep for 2-3 decades." 2/18