Château Yon-Figeac St. Emilion 1990

Tasting note: Château Yon-Figeac 1990 (Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux)

The 1990 Yon-Figeac comes from one of the greatest Bordeaux vintages of the 20th century. As a Grand Crufrom Saint-Émilion, it offers a typically opulent yet elegant expression - a ripe, complex wine with the charm of the right bank of Bordeaux.

Sensory analysis (with good ageing)

Colour:

• Deep ruby-garnet colour with the beginnings of a brick rim - still powerful, but already with the maturity of a wine over 30 years old.

Nose:

• Ripe, dark fruit: stewed plums, blackcurrant, preserved cherries.

• Tertiary aromas: leather, damp earth, tobacco leaf, a hint of truffle.

• Woody notes: Cinnamon, vanilla and a subtle smokiness (typical of barrique ageing of the era).

• Underground: A mineral note of graphite and a slight floral freshness (violets).

Palate:

• Juicy and concentrated, with tannin structure still present but softly integrated.

• Flavours of ripe blackberries, liquorice, dark chocolate and a spicy component (pepper, clove).

• The acidity is lively but harmonious - the wine appears fresh despite its maturity.

• Long finish with hints of mocha, cedar wood and a gentle bitterness (fine cocoa).

Overall impression:
A mature but still powerful Saint-Émilion - not as monumental as a Premier Grand Cru, but with wonderful complexity and drinkability.

Rating & ageing potential

• Parker (RP): 90/100 ("A lush, accessible 1990")

• Drinking window: Now - 2030+ (optimally enjoyable, but still has reserves).

• Decanting recommendation: 30-60 minutes to open up the flavours.

Serving suggestion:

• Entrecôte with truffle fries

• Venison medallions with cranberries

• Matured mountain cheese (e.g. Beaufort or aged Gouda)

Conclusion:

A classic 1990 Bordeaux- ripe, but not overripe, with the typical charm of the vintage: lush fruit, silky texture and a harmonious balance. Perfect for lovers of traditional Saint-Émilion wines without excessive modernity.

A tip: If you own it, enjoy it within the next few years - the peak is now!