Château La Tour Figeac 1982 from Saint-Émilion is a classic representation of Bordeaux’s right bank wines, crafted primarily from Merlot, harmoniously blended with a proportion of Cabernet Franc. The vintage 1982 is particularly celebrated in Bordeaux for its exceptional ripeness, balance, and longevity. The gravel and sandy soils of the estate, coupled with a clay subsoil, provide the optimal conditions for Merlot to thrive, yielding wines with both structure and elegance. The vinification process maintains traditional methods, with meticulous sorting, temperature-controlled fermentation, and considerable ageing in French oak barrels, resulting in a wine with both breed and complexity.
Saint-Émilion itself, nestled on the right bank of the Dordogne river, is renowned for its blend of continental and maritime influences. The region enjoys warm summers and mild, damp winters, promoting optimal ripening of Merlot and giving the wines considerable plushness and aromatic complexity. The soils, a patchwork of limestone, clay, and gravel, lend a signature minerality and freshness. Historically, Saint-Émilion is one of the oldest wine-producing areas of Bordeaux, with a heritage that dates back to Roman times, and its medieval village is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Given the maturity of this 1982 vintage, the wine presents soft tannins, evolving notes of dried tobacco, leather, truffle, and forest floor, layered with lingering blackberries and cherries. Ideally, this wine would shine alongside refined dishes such as roasted duck with figs, a rib of beef with wild mushrooms, or traditional regional fare like entrecôte à la bordelaise. Mature Saint-Émilion also pairs wonderfully with earthy cheeses such as aged Comté or Cantal.
For optimal appreciation, decant gently to separate any sediment, and serve at 17-18°C. Allow the wine a brief moment to breathe and unfold its bouquet, as it is reaching the apogee of its expression. Enjoy this beautiful testament to the legendary 1982 Bordeaux vintage.
