Petit-Figeac Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2019 - Second vin

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

With 35% Cabernet Franc and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, Figeac—located on the gravelly plateau bordering Pomerol—is often described as the most Médoc-like of the Saint-Émilions. The wine’s uniqueness stems from its central terroir, composed of Günzian gravel, the same type found in the Grand Crus Classés of the Left Bank. As a result, this Premier Cru Classé ages beautifully over time. Thierry Manoncourt, the soul of the estate for over sixty years, gave it a much-needed boost. Since 2013, Marie-France Manoncourt, Thierry’s widow, has formed a new management team with her daughters. Under the capable leadership of director Frédéric Faye, the estate has reached the pinnacle of the Right Bank.

Decanter

About the wine:

The nose offers notes of blackberry, with hints of herbal aromas that are so appealing. The texture is smooth and soft, with chalky nuances and hints of black cherries, strawberries, and blackcurrant leaves that provide structure and body. Succulent and juicy with an enticing freshness. It is very dynamic and full of life. Very approachable, with the same refinement and charm that Figeac does so well. 2024–2036

Guide Hachette des vins

About the wine:

The second wine shares the characteristics of its "big brother," with a significant proportion of Cabernet in the blend. With a solid tannic structure yet plenty of finesse, it exudes class with freshness and ease. Notes of cherry and raspberry with a hint of toast, a lively and well-balanced structure, and a subtle finish come together to create a wine with great character, which will continue to improve with age. 2025–2035

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Based on an atypical blend—with equal parts Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot—Figeac’s unique and distinctive style embodies the quintessence of elegance and refinement found in the wines of the western plateau that Saint-Émilion shares with Pomerol. Figeac possesses a character all its own, often more austere and compact than that of its neighbors in its youth. Wines of exceptional character, easy to drink and long-lasting. Figeac shines in warm vintages (as the 2005 demonstrates) and only fully reveals itself after ten to fifteen years of aging. The construction of the new cellar, completed in time for the 2020 harvest, has allowed for even greater attention to detail regarding the plots, including intra-plot analysis, and delights Frédéric Faye with the extreme functionality of the facilities. Semi-underground and situated near the château with which it shares the elegance of a grand cru, this new facility—which fits majestically yet unostentatiously into the site—breathes new life into the estate. The château thus reaffirms the scope of its “modern” classicism, its unpretentious integrity, and its standing: that of the rare few at the very top. Its history rooted in the legend of Saint-Emilion; the preserved trees of the park creating a perfect ecosystem; the power of its terroir with its unique topography and exceptionally high-quality clay soils; and the excellence of the new winery have earned the Manoncourt family estate a fourth star.

Vinous

About the wine:

Petit-Figeac 2019 is a fabulous second wine. Bright and vibrant, the 2019 is truly remarkable. This blend, composed mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, exudes class. Delicate floral and spicy notes highlight a core of supple fruit in this engaging Saint-Émilion. The 2019 is simply magnificent. 2024–2039

James Suckling

About the wine:

A robust yet refined red wine with aromas and flavors of berries and nuts. Medium-bodied. Creamy texture. Medium finish. Needs time to open up. Best enjoyed after 2025.

Le Figaro vins

About the wine:

On the nose, there is a striking purity of ripe, heady fruit and the delicate freshness of freshly picked flowers, underscored by subtle notes of dark chocolate. The chocolatey notes detected on the nose reappear on the palate. There is great delicacy and flair in this irresistible second wine, which allows the noble terroir of Figeac to express itself fully.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

What brilliance and freshness in the bouquet of Petit-Figeac! From the very first moment, it invites you to savor it, with its floral, fruity, and spicy notes of black berries, peony, and licorice. Its sweet, indulgent attack confirms the wine’s inviting, relaxed yet well-structured character! A refreshing, briny touch on the finish. A juicy, savory wine. 2023–2033