Discover the historic Château Figeac, a Premier Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux. Explore its Roman origins, Renaissance architecture, and modern innovations under Thierry Manoncourt and Frederic Faye. Dive...
Nestled in the rich landscapes of Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, Château Figeac stands as a beacon of vinicultural history and excellence. With roots stretching back to the Gallo-Roman period in the second century, the estate has seen continuous viticultural activity, making it not just a piece of history but a living legacy of wine-making.
The foundation of Château Figeac can be traced back to a Roman named "Figeacus", who established a villa on the site. This deep historical connection is palpable, with remnants of ancient water systems and ruins from various eras including the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Renaissance influence is particularly notable in the architecture, with the estate's famous door and tower dating back to 1586. Initially built by Raymond de Cazes, the present chateau was constructed in 1780.
Through a marriage in 1661, the estate came into the possession of the Carles family, and it was renamed Chateau Carle Figeac. By the late 18th century, it was one of the largest vineyards in Bordeaux, boasting 200 hectares. However, the estate experienced significant reduction and division over the centuries, leading to the creation of numerous other Saint Emilion estates bearing the Figeac name.
The modern era of Château Figeac began in earnest with Thierry Manoncourt, who took over management in 1947. Born in Paris and trained in agronomy, Manoncourt was a visionary who balanced tradition with innovation. He modernized the wine-making process at Figeac, introducing temperature-controlled, stainless steel vats in 1971, a pioneering move in the Right Bank.
Photo: Thierry Manoncourt
Under his guidance, Château Figeac produced some exceptional vintages, though the estate experienced periods of inconsistency. After his passing in 2010, a significant reevaluation occurred, driven by his widow, Madame Marie-France Manoncourt, and their new director, Frederic Faye.
Photo: Frederic Faye, Managing Director
Faye's tenure has marked a renaissance for Château Figeac. He has overseen substantial updates to both the cellars and the vineyards, including the installation of new temperature-controlled units and the additional planting of Cabernet Sauvignon to better suit the estate’s gravelly terroir. The consultancy of Michel Rolland, brought in 2013, marked a controversial yet beneficial move, aiding in the blend and refinement of the wines, leading to notably improved vintages since 2012.
Château Figeac's wines are known for their structure and depth, characterized by a significant proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, which is atypical for Saint-Emilion. The estate's approach to viticulture focuses on expressing the unique terroir of its location, producing wines that are both powerful and refined. The most notable recent accolade was the elevation of Château Figeac to Premier Grand Cru Classé (B) status in the 2012 Saint-Emilion classification, recognizing its high quality and consistency.
For wine collectors and enthusiasts, a visit to Château Figeac offers a glimpse into the soul of Bordeaux winemaking. The estate not only showcases its illustrious past but also its dynamic approach to modern viticulture, making it a true dream destination for those passionate about wine.
Through the centuries, Château Figeac has maintained its allure and prestige, continually adapting yet preserving the essence of its origin. It remains a pivotal part of Bordeaux's wine heritage, celebrated for both its storied past and its vibrant present.
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