Petit Figeac (2nd wine of Figeac) 2016

The 2016 Petit-Figeac is a gorgeous, silky second wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Sweet floral notes add freshness and lift to this expressive Saint-Émilion. In 2016, Petit-Figeac has a bit more Franc than usual which also contributes to the wine's perfumed personality. This is impeccably done.

Very cabernet on the nose with blackcurrants, walnuts and fresh herbs. Hints of dried earth. Medium to full body and firm, juicy tannins. Solid. Second wine of Figeac. A blend of 41 per cent cabernet franc, 36 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 23 per cent merlot. Try after 2022.

It was a rainy vintage until June, but then July, August and September were the sunniest for 15 years, with hot days and cool nights. That made it a perfect late season, where the risk was harvesting too late and losing fresh fruit aromatics. They have avoided that here and this wine is a clear step up from the 2014. It's full of well-defined layers with a rich texture and plenty of cocoa, liquorice and dark fruit character. It's approachable now if opened a good few hours before drinking, but will be even better next year. A third of production at the estate goes to Petit Figeac on average and the rest goes to the grand vin. This wine was made with 40% new oak.

The 2016 Petit-Figeac has a pleasant bouquet of blackberry, raspberry and light cedar aromas from the 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Cabernet Franc. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins, flecks of dark chocolate on the entry, a slightly lactic texture and a harmonious, easygoing finish. An approachable second wine that will drink well over the next five or six years.