Trimbach meets Château Figeac

The history of the Trimbach family dates back to 1626. Thirteen generations have preserved a distinctive Alsatian winemaking tradition, producing wines that remain remarkably different from those made just a few kilometres to the east, on the German side of the Rhine. While German Riesling followed its own paths into the modern era over the centuries, Alsace remained committed to a predominantly dry, structured style across its white wines, emphasising expression and longevity. Trimbach is among the most renowned guardians of this tradition.

Four pairs of wines take us through half a century of this history: Gewürztraminer Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 1976 and 2016, Riesling Grand Cru Geisberg 2012 and 2019, Riesling Frédéric Emile 2011 and 2016, and the legendary Clos Sainte Hune 2009 and 2017. Some of the wines in the final three pairs will be served from magnum bottles. Clos Sainte Hune, in particular, ranks among the world’s truly great white wines – a Riesling capable of ageing for decades without losing its vibrancy or structure.

• Gewürztraminer Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 1976
• Gewürztraminer Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 2016
• Riesling Grand Cru Geisberg 2012
• Riesling Grand Cru Geisberg 2019 Magnum
• Riesling Frédéric Emile 2011 Magnum
• Riesling Frédéric Emile 2016 Magnum
• Riesling Clos Sainte Hune 2009 Magnum
• Riesling Clos Sainte Hune 2017 Magnum

The journey then continues to Saint-Émilion and Château Figeac. Classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé A since 2022, the estate is one of the most distinctive properties on the Right Bank of the Gironde. Its unusually high proportion of Cabernet sets Figeac apart from many of its neighbours.

The Bordeaux chapter opens with Petit-Figeac 2023 and 2022, a more approachable, earlier-drinking interpretation of this historic estate, designed to appeal particularly to a younger generation of red wine enthusiasts. The blend combines Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon: 58%, 21% and 21% respectively in 2022, while the 2023 consists of 55% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon – distinctive blends that reflect Figeac’s individual character.

Next come two outstanding vintages of Château Figeac, 2015 and 2016, before the evening reaches its grand finale: the great vintages of 2010 and 2009 from double magnums, followed by 1986 from double magnum and 1976 from a five-litre bottle (Jeroboam). A perfect way to conclude the evening!

• Petit-Figeac 2023
• Petit-Figeac 2022
• Château Figeac 2016
• Château Figeac 2015
• Château Figeac 2010 Double Magnum
• Château Figeac 2009 Double Magnum
• Château Figeac 1986 Double Magnum
• Château Figeac 1976 – 5 Litres

This is a remarkable encounter between two great French wine cultures. On one side, the centuries-old art of crafting white wines with almost limitless ageing potential. On the other, the great tradition of Saint-Émilion, continually redefining itself for the present day. And between them, half a century of wine history that, for one evening, will emerge from the cellar and come to life.

Jean Trimbach and Frédéric Faye (Château Figeac) will guide guests through the evening.