Figeac - Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 1994

Wine Advocate

84 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe2/28/1997

Figeac has a superlative terroir, but the high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc planted in the vineyards seems to guarantee frightful inconsistency. When it is great (1982 and 1990), this is one of the most compelling wines made in Bordeaux, offering the texture of a sumptuous Pomerol, yet the aromatic complexity of Cabernet-based Medoc. The 1994's medium dark ruby color is followed by a green pepper, olive, and blackcurrant-scented nose. The herbaceousness may develop a more cedary character with 3-4 years of cellaring. Although too tannic, the wine is medium-bodied, with ripe, sweet fruit, good purity, and a mid-weight feel in the mouth. Readers who have a fondness for austere wines will be more enchanted with this offering than I was. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2010.

Wine Spectator

88 / 100

the1/31/1997

Beautiful. Good concentration, with a berry, tobacco and dried herb character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. Better than anticipated now, best in 1999.

Wine Advocate

85-86 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/1996

Figeac's 1994 has taken on a bell pepper, leafy, weedy, Monterey County Cabernet Sauvignon-like smell. The color is medium ruby. The wine offers good ripeness, an elegant, light to medium-bodied feel, and a round, plush finish. This is a soft, stylish, fragrant, complex wine made from a higher percentage of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon than is usually encountered in St.-Emilion. However, the weediness is a component readers must adore in order to appreciate this wine. It should drink well for 7-10 years.

Wine Advocate

87-89 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/1995

After disappointing efforts in both 1992 and 1993, Figeac has rebounded with a strong effort in 1994 that is not far off the standard set by the estate's dazzling 1990. A high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in a St.-Emilion often translates into lighter-bodied wines. Figeac's 1994 exhibits excellent depth and concentration, as well as some of the subtle herbaceousness that can accompany Cabernet's olive-tinged, cassis fruit. At its best, Figeac combines noteworthy suppleness, elegance, finesse, and fine intensity. The latter component is often compromised in lighter vintages. That is not the case in 1994, as this seductive, complex, fragrant, stylish wine should drink well young and age gracefully for 12-15 years. This attractive effort may merit an exceptional score if it gains more weight.