Croix Figeac, Chateau
Summary
Château Croix Figeac is a 5.5-hectare Saint-Émilion Grand Cru estate owned by the Moueix family, producing approximately 25,000 bottles annually from predominantly Merlot vineyards planted on sandy-gravel soils with clay subsoils near the Pomerol border. The property follows the Moueix family's methodical approach with hand harvesting, concrete vat fermentation, and 15-18 month French oak aging, emphasizing minimal intervention to express the vineyard's natural characteristics rather than imposing a predetermined style.
Heritage & Leadership
Chateau Croix Figeac is situated in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, France. The property was acquired by Établissements Jean-Pierre Moueix in the early 2000s, adding to their portfolio of Right Bank estates. The Moueix family, led by Christian Moueix and later his son Edouard, has maintained oversight of the property while implementing their methodical approach to vineyard management and winemaking. Under their stewardship, the estate has undergone careful renovation of both vineyard and cellar facilities to enhance quality production. The property's history is intertwined with the broader Saint-Émilion region, though it operates as a distinct entity from the Grand Cru Classé Château Figeac despite the similarity in name.
Vineyards & Wines
Chateau Croix Figeac encompasses approximately 5.5 hectares of vineyards in the northwestern sector of Saint-Émilion, positioned on the edge of the appellation near Pomerol. The vineyard is planted predominantly to Merlot (approximately 80%) with the remainder dedicated to Cabernet Franc, reflecting the typical Right Bank varietal composition. The soils consist primarily of sandy-gravel with clay subsoils, providing good drainage while maintaining sufficient water retention during dry periods. The vineyard's relatively flat topography at around 35-40 meters above sea level creates consistent growing conditions across the property. The estate produces a single wine, Chateau Croix Figeac, classified as Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, with an annual production of approximately 25,000 bottles depending on the vintage conditions.
Philosophy & Practice
The winemaking at Chateau Croix Figeac follows the Moueix family's established protocols, emphasizing precision and restraint. Harvest is conducted by hand with careful selection in the vineyard and at the sorting table. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled concrete vats, allowing for gentle extraction of color and tannins. The wine typically undergoes malolactic fermentation in vat before being transferred to French oak barrels for aging, with approximately 30-40% new oak used each vintage. The maturation period extends for 15-18 months before bottling. The Moueix approach focuses on expressing terroir through minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the site to define the wine's profile. The property adheres to sustainable farming practices with particular attention to soil health and biodiversity, though no formal organic or biodynamic certification has been pursued.