The 2011 is very different in style from the 2012, but they make a good pair to taste next to each other because they seem to be at around the same stage of evolution, just in a different style. The 2011 took more time to open but it is highly appealing right now, with black tea, slate and rosemary spice and with eucalyptus and menthol on the finish. It's fresh but full of sweet raspberry and black cherry fruits, too. It also has the Figeac polish and the estate's effortless, unflappable balance. Made with 100% new oak.

Quite a traditional style. A slew of dried-herb and spice aromas are underlined by wide spectrum of red and black berries. Taut and firm, medium body with a serious tannin structure that’s just about fully resolved. Long, elegant finish with a chalky texture. Drink or hold. Château Quintus vertical tasting. SP.

The 2011 Figeac was quite sullen and unexpressive in its youth and I dished out some parsimonious score. Yet, two recent bottles have prompted me to raise my opinion on this vintage. It has an intense bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, rose petal and a touch of marmalade. These are aromas with ambition! The palate is very well balanced with fine tannins, superb body, very focused and serious in style. This is a 2011 with plans on repaying those with the nous to cellar it for a few years. Very classy, this is well made. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting. -- Neal Martin

The 2011 Château Figeac is drinking nicely, with plenty of cassis, black cherry, and blackberry fruits intermixed with notions of graphite, sappy herbs, and earth. With medium-bodied richness and depth, solid mid-palate concentration, and ripe yet present tannins, it's youthful and drinking nicely, with another 15 years of longevity ahead of it.

The plum and black cherry fruit has a floral edge, giving this version an elegant feel overall, while subtle tobacco, singed tea leaf and wood spice notes fill out the lengthy finish. This lovely wine has dropped serious muscle since the barrel tasting and is showing elegance and finesse that belies its age. Best from 2015 through 2025. 8,750 cases made. — JM