1983 Figeac

The 1983 Figeac has a light brick rim. It has a thin rustic nose, touches of terracotta and leather infusing the red berry fruit, loose-knit but charming. The palate still has an almost Left Bank personality; the Cabernet components are very expressive. Grainy tannins, more minty than five years ago when I last tasted this vintage, with some herbal notes emerging towards the finish. It’s a bit rough hewn for a Figeac, but should continue to drink well for several years. Tasted at the Berlin vertical.

Tasted at the Château Figeac vertical at the property. The 1983 Figeac is mature in colour with a wide tawny rim compared to other vintages. It has a leafy and autumnal bouquet, a little faded and frayed at the seams, touches of black pastilles developing with aeration, as if to compensate for its overt herbaceousness. The palate is medium-bodied with quite high acidity. It is not a complex Figeac and it tapers towards the finish, leaving you wanting more. I suspect this is in gradual decline and should be consumed soon. Tasted June 2015.

Very deep ruby. Some acidity, not much richness but agreeable core and vigour. Not a weak vintage. Though slightly dry rather than fleshy. Late picked. As though there was a bit of drought?? Still lively. But dry end. Lots of acid. A tad skinny. (JR)