Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes Bordeaux, Complete Guide

Yquem

Learn everything about Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes, First Growth, Premier Cru Superieur with wine tasting notes and wine with food pairing tips. Learn about the best vintages, a history of the property, information on the vineyards and winemaking. If you want to read about other important, Bordeaux Chateaux: Links to all Bordeaux Wine Producer Profiles

Chateau d’Yquem History, Overview

While wine lovers, collectors, chateau owners, winemakers, and others can enjoy arguing which is the best wine of a specific appellation, there is only one wine in the world that is the undisputed best wine in the region. We’re not just talking about Bordeaux, we’re talking about any of the world’s wine-producing regions.

That unique honor goes to Chateau d’Yquem. Chateau d’Yquem is the only wine that almost everyone, everywhere agrees stands heads and shoulders above every other wine in the appellation. This becomes even more apparent when you’re at Chateau d’Yquem. Located on the top of a hill, you really feel like you’re in a different world that looks down on the rest of Bordeaux.

Chateau d’Yquem is not only the most famous chateau in Sauternes today, the estate has an exalted reputation dating back to the middle ages when d’Yquem was owned by the King of England.

At the time, the King was also the Duke of Aquitaine. Skipping ahead 150 years later, in 1593, a noble family, Jacques Sauvage, was given feudal tenure over d’Yquem. Shortly after taking over the property, the Sauvage family built the present Chateau in Sauternes that we know today.

The Chateau at d’Yquem still looks very much as it did in those days. It feels like a castle. It was the Sauvage family that changed the grape varieties in the vineyard in 1642 to 100% white wine grapes. Prior to 1642, at least 20% of the vines were planted to red wine grapes.

Was d’Yquem producing sweet or dry wine at the time? Archives prove that special Bordeaux wine growing practices and late harvesting already existed in the 1500s in the appellation. By 1666 they were starting to make wine with grapes that were attacked by noble rot. So, yes the wines were sweet, but not nearly as sweet as the wines produced at Chateau Yquem today.

Chateau d’Yquem by this point in time was already prized for its sweet wines by wealthy wine lovers like Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States loved the wine. He bought several cases of it for his own cellars.

yquem cork

During World War 1, Chateau d’Yquem was used as an army hospital. Following the war, Marquis Bertrand de Lur Saluces, son of Eugene took over the estate for the next 50 years. During World War 2, Chateau d’Yquem once again served as a military hospital.

As a special thank you from the French soldiers that were treated there, they planted a chestnut tree that can be seen slightly past the walls of the chateau. Bertrand de Lur Saluces, also served as the President of the Union des Crus Classes de la Gironde for forty years.

He was instrumental in determining many of the AOC regulations for the Sauternes appellation when it was officially created. He was also one of the leading proponents of chateau bottling to guarantee authenticity.

Chateau d’Yquem The Modern Age

Bertrand de Lur Saluces designated one of his brother’s sons, Alexandre de Lur Saluces, to take over managing Chateau d’Yquem in 1966. Bertrand Lur Saluces passed away two years later.

Count Alexandre de Lur Saluces perpetuated his family’s tradition as manager of Chateau d’Yquem for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Chateau d’Yquem becomes one of the first major estates to fight fraud by introducing a watermark on their label.

Marjosse Pierre Lurton

In 1996, LVMH purchased half of the shares of Chateau d’Yquem for one hundred million dollars. The relationship between the new owners and the family members was tempestuous and inspired multiple lawsuits that dragged on for years

After a long, bitter court battle and multiple lawsuits between a myriad of heirs, the Count arranged for L.V.M.H/Moet-Hennessy-Louis Vuitton to purchase the remaining shares of the property in 2004. They named Pierre Lurton, who was already managing their other property, Chateau Cheval Blanc in St. Emilion to manage Chateau d’Yquem.

Most top Bordeaux wine is only sold as futures. Because d’Yquem is released 4-5 years after the vintage, (Due to extended barrel aging) it was not sold as a future until the 2000 vintage.

The new owners changed that policy. Starting with the 2003 vintage, the wine was sold as a future. In 2011, due to the slowing economy and the lackluster interest in the 2011 Bordeaux futures campaign, the chateau issued a statement saying they were not going to offer the 2011 d’Yquem as a future. That changed again with the 2018 vintage, as Chateau d’Yquem stopped selling their wine En Primeur.

While expensive at more than twice the price of every other wine from Sauternes, when the wine matures, Chateau d’Yquem stands head and shoulders above every other sweet Bordeaux wine from the region as well as every other sweet wine from any vineyard in the world! Chateau d’Yquem holds the record for the world’s most expensive bottle of white wine. In 2011, at an auction, a single bottle of the historic 1811 d’Yquem was bought for $117,000!

Chateau d’Yquem Vineyards, Terroir, Grapes, Winemaking

The vineyard of Chateau d’Yquem has 113 hectares of vines. However, it is important to note that only 100 hectares of vines are planted at any given time. The vineyard of Chateau d’Yquem is planted to 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc.

Today Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc are planted in their own, respective parcels. That was not always the case. In the early part of the 20th century, the vines were often co-planted, although they were divided by the same ratio that exists today.

The terroir is at the highest elevation in Sauternes reaching up to 80 meters of elevation. This awards the vineyard a unique microclimate. The micro-climate is paramount, because it allows for winds from the east to move through the vineyard, helping to remove unwanted, excessive moisture, especially later in the growing season, as the noble rot sets in.

And due to its elevation and soils, you also find more effective drainage here. The vineyard has 3 undulating slopes that range in height from 30 meters to 80 meters, (262 feet). At its peak elevation, the vineyard faces north, in the direction of the Garonne river.

The terroir is a combination of clay, gravel, and sand over a bed of deep, limestone soil. The clay varies, depending on the parcel. You can find deposits of clay with limestone and even some of the same blue clay that makes up the soil of Petrus.

The large deposits of clay are one of the main differences separating Yquem from other vineyards. There are a total of 150 different parcels in the vineyards of Yquem. It is the blending of the parcels, soils, grape varieties, clones, and rootstocks that produce the magic of Chateau d’Yquem. The vines are on average 25 years of age. Generally speaking, vines are replaced before they hit 50 years of age.

Harvest at Chateau d’Yquem

The grapes are always picked by hand, berry by berry. During harvest, it can take multiple passes through the vineyards to harvest berries with enough ripeness and Botrytis. Due to the intensive sorting and berries attacked by Botrytis, yields have always been low at Chateau d’Yquem, ranging from 8 to 10 hectoliters per hectare.

One way to look at the reality of those low yields is to consider that each vine, delivers only 1 glass of wine! Those low yields have remained constant for centuries. Interestingly, part of what makes the wine of Chateau d’Yquem stand out is that the fruit is harvested with different levels of Botrytis, which adds complexity, sweetness, and acidity, the three main components needed to produce great Sauternes wine.

Botrytis cinerea is a fungus that infects and attacks grapes. It is better known as noble rot, due to the special and sought-after qualities it imparts to the fruit. This rot needs specific conditions to develop, dampness or humidity in the morning, coupled with warmth later in the day.

This leaves the fruit without much moisture. The grapes become shriveled, dehydrated, and concentrated with new characteristics. These new qualities are sought after in Sauternes and other wine regions outside Bordeaux for their honey-filled, tropical, roasted nut and exotic sensations.

It’s important to note that grapes are never harvested when it rains, or in the morning, to avoid dew. It takes on average 180 different pickers divided into 4 separate groups during harvest time to complete the picking. This comes out to 2 pickers per hectare, which explains the intense selection and sorting that takes place here.

Starting with the 1992 vintage, Chateau d’Yquem instituted their own massal selection program. The vineyard is always in the process of being replanted. To maintain their average age, between 2 to 3 hectares of vines are replaced each year.

Close to 10% of their vineyard remains uncultivated. Instead, that land is used for parkland and grazing pasture. Prior to 2019, only organic fertilizers from manure comes from animals that grazed on their land. In 2019, Chateau d’Yquem became 100% organic in all their farming. In 2020 Chateau d’Yquem began its conversion to 100% biodynamic in all their vineyard management practices.

Yquem Dinner

Making wine at Chateau d’Yquem

To produce the wine of Chateau d’Yquem, it all starts in the vineyard with the desire to pick only the ripest possible fruit that has been attacked by Botrytis. This is a labor-intensive process that requires multiple passes in the vineyards.

In difficult vintages, pickers have made as many as 13 passes, hoping to find berries to the satisfaction of Chateau d’Yquem. Once the fruit is sorted, the grapes are pressed 3 times using pneumatic presses for the first two pressings. The final pressing is conducted in a vertical press.

The juice from the third press is vinified separately and if it is used, it’s blended in after the barrel aging. It can take from 2 to 6 weeks for the alcoholic fermentation to be completed. The amount of time depends on the vintage and the sugar levels.

The vinification takes place in 100% new, French oak barrels. Another change in the winemaking at Yquem is the amount of time the wine spends aging in new oak. The wine is aged in different barrels that are arranged depending on the picking date of each parcel during the harvest.

In total, it can take as many as 400 barrels each year to hold the entire production. While the wine of Chateau d’Yquem is made in the vineyard, it takes a little help n the cellars. This is accomplished by the technical director Francis Mayeur and Sandrine Garbay, the cellar master who along with Pierre Lurton, is a large part of the face of the estate.

In 2011, the estate changed its vinification process. In prior vintages, in order to halt to fermentation process to retain higher sugar levels, they reduced the temperature. But since 2011, they have added sulfur to stop fermentation.

Prior to 2000, Yquem was aged for an average of 36 months in 100% new, French oak barrels. Today, Yquem spends only 30 months in 100% new, French oak barrels. The grapes come from up to 40 different parcels. The blending of the parcels and both grape varieties take place about 10 months after the harvest for between 80% and 90% of the harvest.

The remainder of the wine is blended in, or not, slightly prior to bottling. Chateau d’Yquem on average produces close to 10,000 cases of wine per vintage.

Sugar levels of Chateau d’Yquem

Of course, d’Yquem is a sweet wine. But how much sugar is in Chateau d’Yquem? In the 20th century and before, it was common for vintages of d’Yquem to have average sugar levels that ranged from 80 grams per liter to 120 grams per liter. Today, the goal is for more sweetness, which can range from 120 grams per liter to 140 grams per liter.

The rise in sugar levels and thus viscosity has also been accompanied by freshness, from acidity. This leveling balance is a large part of what gives the wine of Chateau d’Yquem its unique character.

Style and Character of Chateau d’Yquem

Chateau d’Yquem is no like no other sweet wine in the world. It combines compelling aromatics of flowers, honey, tropical fruits, vanilla, stone, apricot, white peaches, grilled nuts, and oranges when young. As the wine ages, it takes on a deeper color with an orange copper hue and starts to show scents of caramel, butterscotch, and honeyed tropical fruits. With more time, the wine develops chocolate tones are as well

Chateau d’Yquem is concentrated, rich, and deep, but even with all that sweetness going on, there is a spine of racy, acidity that keeps the wine fresh and lively. The textures are pure silk and velvet. Yes, other sweet white Bordeaux wines can deliver similar characteristics to varying degrees when young, but when most other wines have dropped their fruit, Chateau d’Yquem continues to age and evolve.

It is not uncommon for the best vintages of Chateau d’Yquem to deliver intense pleasure at 100 years of age if they were well stored. While Chateau d’Yquem is expensive, it delivers a unique tasting experience, coupled with the ability to age for decades, and in the best vintages, there is no other wine that competes at the same level.

When Chateau d’Yquem is first bottled, it shows a dark yellow or gold hue. With aging, the color changes and begins getting darker. 40-year-old d’Yquem could resemble caramel, while bottles twice that age, could have the color of dark coffee.

Something else to consider, when d’Yquem is young, not more than 25 years after the vintage, the flavors will better resemble honey, drenched tropical fruit. As the wine ages further, often those yellow tropical fruit flavors fade and tasters experience flavors of caramel, burnt toast, spice, and creme brulee.

The best vintages of Chateau d’Yquem are: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2003, 2001, 1997, 1996, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1986, 1983, 1976, 1975, 1967, 1962, 1959, 1949, 1947, 1945, 1937, 1929, 1927, 1921, 1893, 1869, 1847 and 1811.

When to Drink Chateau d’Yquem, Anticipated Maturity, Decanting Time

Chateau d’Yquem can be enjoyed on the young side with no decanting. Of course, the wine is sweet, but there is so much, incredible, racy acidity, the wine always feels fresh, and never cloying, which makes it quite fun to enjoy young. With Chateau d’Yquem and frankly, all Sauternes, the temperature is more important than decanting.

Chateau d’Yquem is delicious on release. But d’Yquem does not reach full maturity for 35-50 years, or even longer in the best vintages! That is when the magic happens! But that is unrealistic for 99% of the world’s wine drinkers. So, enjoy it on any special occasion that calls for it.

Serving Chateau d’Yquem with Wine and Food Pairings

Chateau d’Yquem is best served at 14 degrees Celsius, 57 degrees Fahrenheit. The cool, almost cellar temperature gives the wine more freshness and lift. The wine will naturally, slowly warm in the glass, while it develops more aromatic complexities and fleshes out.

Chateau d’Yquem can be served with seafood dishes, especially shellfish, lobster, crab, and oysters on the half shell. Foie gras is a perfect pairing with its natural sweet, salty and savory characteristics. Chateau d’Yquem can also be paired with roasted chicken, veal, and pork dishes that are either spicy or prepared with a touch of sweetness.

Spicy Asian cuisine, raw fish, like sushi or sashimi, and cheese, both hard and soft also make great pairings with Chateau d’Yquem.

Chateau d’Yquem Dry White Wine

Chateau d’Yquem also produces a dry, white Bordeaux wine called “Y,” which is pronounced (Ygrec). The wine is only made in select vintages. The first vintage for the production of dry, white wine at Chateau d’Yquem took place in 1959.

Yquem Ygrec Vats

To make the dry white Bordeaux wine of d’Yquem, the fruit the estate uses does not only come from declassified grapes. Most of the berries are picked before the harvesting of the grapes for the production of Chateau d’Yquem has started.

When harvesting for Ygrec, the vines and grapes are chosen prior to harvest. However, while one bunch of Sauvignon Blanc on the vine is designated for Ygrec, the remaining bunch can be used for d’Yquem, if the necessary amount of noble rot develops.

For the Semillon used in Ygrec, the grapes are harvested just prior to the full development of noble rot.

Close to 80% of the parcels used to produce their dry white wine can change from vintage to vintage.

The blend of “Y” is normally close to 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon. Interestingly, this is almost the complete opposite of the grape blend that is placed in Chateau d’Yquem! Since 2000, it has become more common to see vintages of “Y,” than in previous years.

This is due to an increase in production. However starting with 2005, Ygrec has been made in every vintage. Today, slightly less than 1,000 cases are produced of “Y” each year.

To produce the dry white Bordeaux wine from d’Yquem, the wine is vinified in stainless steel vats. In fact, in 2012, the estate added several new, gleaming, stainless steel for the vinification. There is no malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged in 50% new, French oak barrels for an average of 10 months.

During its aging time, the wine is aged on its lees. This marks a major change in the wine, as previously, the wine was aged for up to 18 months in barrel before bottling.

Starting with the 2011 vintage, the chateau completely redesigned the label for “Y”. The dry white wine of Yquem, “Y” is sold as a Bordeaux Superieur Blanc. Chateau d’Yquem does not produce a second wine. Instead, they declassify unwanted grapes or wine.

While the estate strives to make vintages of Chateau d’Yquem every year, that is not always possible. Chateau d’Yquem ended up declassifying the entire harvest and did not make wine in the following vintages, 1910, 1915, 1930, 1951, 1952, 1964, 1972, 1974, 1992, and 2012.

Even with as many as thirteen separate passes in the vineyards, as the grapes were not up to their high standard to produce a wine worthy of Chateau d’Yquem, they did not produce any wine in those years.

So, what does Chateau d’Yquem do with the declassified wine? In the past, declassified grapes that were not used in the production of their dry, white wine “Y”, were sold off in bulk and used to produce a generic, Sauternes wine.

Today, declassified grapes are also used to produce a special blend of declassified d’Yquem that is only available to employees through internal sales at the property. The wine is not meant to be sold as a commercial product. The wine is classed as a generic AOC Sauternes wine.

www.yquem.fr

Château d'Yquem Wine Tasting Notes

76 Vintages 1,237,929 Views Sort by Vintage-Rating

2022
93
The distinctive nose offers waxy, yellow citrus, pineapples, lemon peel, green apples, lemon grass, orange rind, flowers, and freshly cut grass. The fruit has a lush quality, sweetness, round textures, and a grapefruit, gingery spice, and herb-filled finish. Drink from 2025-2040.

The distinctive nose offers waxy, yellow citrus, pineapples, lemon peel, green apples, lemon grass, orange rind, flowers, and freshly cut grass. The fruit has a lush quality, sweetness, round textures, and a grapefruit, gingery spice, and herb-filled finish. Drink from 2025-2040.

952 Views   Tasted
2021
98
The complex aromatic profile explodes from the glass with pineapple, papaya, apricot, Meyer lemon, tangerine peels, caramel, honey, vanilla, saffron, cashews, and candied grapefruit in the aromatic profile. The palate resides perfectly in the middle of hedonism, and vibrancy. Clearly, there is ample sweetness, but the racy acidity provides incredible lift, energy, and length. The fruit expresses purity in its tangerines, oranges, mango, papaya, banana, and pineapples all slathered in honey. This is one of those Yquem's that can be enjoyed either as a sweet wine, or due to its vibrancy, with a diverse array of savory, and spicy dishes. Produced from a blend of 65% Semillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc, 148 Grams per liter, 14% ABV, 3.79 pH. Yields were only 8 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest took place over an extended time, September 12 - October 27, with 4 passes in total. As you can see, the harvest was quite long, but picking the heart of vintage took place mid-to late October. Drink from 2027-2075.

The complex aromatic profile explodes from the glass with pineapple, papaya, apricot, Meyer lemon, tangerine peels, caramel, honey, vanilla, saffron, cashews, and candied grapefruit in the aromatic profile. The palate resides perfectly in the middle of hedonism, and vibrancy. Clearly, there is ample sweetness, but the racy acidity provides incredible lift, energy, and length. The fruit expresses purity in its tangerines, oranges, mango, papaya, banana, and pineapples all slathered in honey. This is one of those Yquem's that can be enjoyed either as a sweet wine, or due to its vibrancy, with a diverse array of savory, and spicy dishes. Produced from a blend of 65% Semillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc, 148 Grams per liter, 14% ABV, 3.79 pH. Yields were only 8 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest took place over an extended time, September 12 - October 27, with 4 passes in total. As you can see, the harvest was quite long, but picking the heart of vintage took place mid-to late October. Drink from 2027-2075.

2,965 Views   Tasted
2020
98
On the fresh, bright vibrant, racy side of the style range with a focus on its complex core of honeysuckle, dried oranges, apricots, lemon curd, saffron, marzipan, pineapple, vanilla, and just the right drizzle of honey to top everything off. It is cut, and defined, with length, purity, lift, and ample acidities giving lift, length, and vibrancy, as well as richness, balance, and complexity. I love this style of d'Yquem because it works as a sweet wine that can be enjoyed either on its own or with a myriad of savory courses. So, if you cannot keep your hands off it, enjoy it on the young side for all its luscious, sweet, ripe, overripe, racy fruits, or age it for decades as it gains secondary nuances. Drink from 2025-2065.

On the fresh, bright vibrant, racy side of the style range with a focus on its complex core of honeysuckle, dried oranges, apricots, lemon curd, saffron, marzipan, pineapple, vanilla, and just the right drizzle of honey to top everything off. It is cut, and defined, with length, purity, lift, and ample acidities giving lift, length, and vibrancy, as well as richness, balance, and complexity. I love this style of d'Yquem because it works as a sweet wine that can be enjoyed either on its own or with a myriad of savory courses. So, if you cannot keep your hands off it, enjoy it on the young side for all its luscious, sweet, ripe, overripe, racy fruits, or age it for decades as it gains secondary nuances. Drink from 2025-2065.

3,287 Views   Tasted
2019
98
Light, yellow, gold in color, the wine pops on the nose with its showy display of flowers, honeysuckle, candied apricots, orange rind, pineapple, mango, lemongrass, vanilla and spice. Perched on the corner of richness, sweetness and acidity, the wine is opulent, fresh, sweet, rich and most-importantly, lifted, so everything feels upbeat and racy on the backend. Because the wine has so much lift and energy, it will be easy to pair with a diverse array of cuisines. You can enjoy this young, without much if any age for its sweetness and exuberance. Or age it for secondary characteristics and nuances. Produced from a blend of 55% Semillon and 45% Sauvignon Blanc, 2019 has the highest percentage of Sauvignon Blanc ever used in d'Yquem. You find more Sauvignon Blanc this year due to the shortened picking window. But as you can see from my notes, or from tasting the wine, it really works here! Drink from 2025-2075.

Light, yellow, gold in color, the wine pops on the nose with its showy display of flowers, honeysuckle, candied apricots, orange rind, pineapple, mango, lemongrass, vanilla and spice. Perched on the corner of richness, sweetness and acidity, the wine is opulent, fresh, sweet, rich and most-importantly, lifted, so everything feels upbeat and racy on the backend. Because the wine has so much lift and energy, it will be easy to pair with a diverse array of cuisines. You can enjoy this young, without much if any age for its sweetness and exuberance. Or age it for secondary characteristics and nuances. Produced from a blend of 55% Semillon and 45% Sauvignon Blanc, 2019 has the highest percentage of Sauvignon Blanc ever used in d'Yquem. You find more Sauvignon Blanc this year due to the shortened picking window. But as you can see from my notes, or from tasting the wine, it really works here! Drink from 2025-2075.

5,205 Views   Tasted
2019
95
Green apples, lemon wax, flowers, dried pineapple and honeysuckle make for an exotic perfume. The wine is fresh, crisp and slightly honeyed with touches of vanilla and yellow fruits with a touch of spice found in the lifted endnote. You can enjoy this on release, or age it for 15-20 years for more exotic nuances. Drink from 2022-2040.

Green apples, lemon wax, flowers, dried pineapple and honeysuckle make for an exotic perfume. The wine is fresh, crisp and slightly honeyed with touches of vanilla and yellow fruits with a touch of spice found in the lifted endnote. You can enjoy this on release, or age it for 15-20 years for more exotic nuances. Drink from 2022-2040.

2,542 Views   Tasted
2018
97
Elegant, creamy, fresh, sweet charmer. While this lacks the density and verve found in the very best vintages, there is more than enough ripe and overripe pineapple, vanilla, roasted apricot, mango, candied orange rind and honey to keep any taster busy. Luscious textured, rich and opulent, this will be delicious in its youth, and it also has the ability to age for decades.

Elegant, creamy, fresh, sweet charmer. While this lacks the density and verve found in the very best vintages, there is more than enough ripe and overripe pineapple, vanilla, roasted apricot, mango, candied orange rind and honey to keep any taster busy. Luscious textured, rich and opulent, this will be delicious in its youth, and it also has the ability to age for decades.

3,043 Views   Tasted
2018
94
Waxy lemons, grapefruit, lemon curd, green apple and honeysuckle all make an appearance in this fresh, mineral driven, yellow citrus and tropical orange focused wine.

Waxy lemons, grapefruit, lemon curd, green apple and honeysuckle all make an appearance in this fresh, mineral driven, yellow citrus and tropical orange focused wine.

2,252 Views   Tasted
2017
99
Clearly one of the great vintages of d'Yquem of all time, this stunner is off the hook from the initial sniff. Roasted apricots, overripe pineapple, vanilla, mango, marzipan and creme caramel all topped with honey keeps you focused on the wine. If that isn't enough when the wine crosses your palate, the weight, volume, intensity and richness discovered in the layers of honey-slathered tropical fruits, vanilla and apricot. What makes everything work is the razors edge of acidity that gives the wine the necessary lift. Like all great wines, you can enjoy this young, but if you have the patience, or young children to gift this to, this will be markedly better in 20 or more years.

Clearly one of the great vintages of d'Yquem of all time, this stunner is off the hook from the initial sniff. Roasted apricots, overripe pineapple, vanilla, mango, marzipan and creme caramel all topped with honey keeps you focused on the wine. If that isn't enough when the wine crosses your palate, the weight, volume, intensity and richness discovered in the layers of honey-slathered tropical fruits, vanilla and apricot. What makes everything work is the razors edge of acidity that gives the wine the necessary lift. Like all great wines, you can enjoy this young, but if you have the patience, or young children to gift this to, this will be markedly better in 20 or more years.

3,543 Views   Tasted
Crisp notes of vanilla, marzipan, pineapple, mango, orange rind, flowers, and candied apricot are right there, as soon as wine the moves from the bottle to your glass. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, fresh, sweet, ripe and zippy. There is length, purity and precision. The lingering pineapple, apricot and sweet, lemon curd on your palate gets life from the jolt of racy acidity that runs down the middle. This is a top vintage for Chateau d'Yquem that is defined by its vibrant, freshness. What made 2017 so good, is the speed in which the sugar levels reached maximum potential. The harvest took place September 26 - October 13. The wine was made from blending 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc, reaching 13.6% with sugars hitting 48 G/L. The Grand Vin was made from 40% of the harvest.

Crisp notes of vanilla, marzipan, pineapple, mango, orange rind, flowers, and candied apricot are right there, as soon as wine the moves from the bottle to your glass. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, fresh, sweet, ripe and zippy. There is length, purity and precision. The lingering pineapple, apricot and sweet, lemon curd on your palate gets life from the jolt of racy acidity that runs down the middle. This is a top vintage for Chateau d'Yquem that is defined by its vibrant, freshness. What made 2017 so good, is the speed in which the sugar levels reached maximum potential. The harvest took place September 26 - October 13. The wine was made from blending 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc, reaching 13.6% with sugars hitting 48 G/L. The Grand Vin was made from 40% of the harvest.

6,945 Views   Tasted
2017
94
A splash of freshness in the glass, the wine pops with loads of just-squeezed grapefruit, lemon peel, vanilla, line, passion fruit, tangerine and honeysuckle. Vibrant and juicy on the palate, all this needs is fresh seafood to make a perfect pairing.

A splash of freshness in the glass, the wine pops with loads of just-squeezed grapefruit, lemon peel, vanilla, line, passion fruit, tangerine and honeysuckle. Vibrant and juicy on the palate, all this needs is fresh seafood to make a perfect pairing.

3,345 Views   Tasted
2016
97
Chateau d'Yquem is great at any age, and this just-released beauty is no exception to that rule. The wine combines high levels of sweet, ripe, tropical fruits, honey coated apricots and pineapple. with freshness, giving the wine lift and freshness. This is going to offer superb drinking for at least 50 or more years.

Chateau d'Yquem is great at any age, and this just-released beauty is no exception to that rule. The wine combines high levels of sweet, ripe, tropical fruits, honey coated apricots and pineapple. with freshness, giving the wine lift and freshness. This is going to offer superb drinking for at least 50 or more years.

4,719 Views   Tasted
Fat, sweet, tropical fruits, apricots and Mandarin oranges slathered in honey, vanilla and flowers. This is quite rich, powerful and concentrated. It has more freshness than the 2003, but not as much freshness as you find in 2013. Still, this is complex, deep, long and intense, yet remarkably light on its feet. This will age much longer than I will.

Fat, sweet, tropical fruits, apricots and Mandarin oranges slathered in honey, vanilla and flowers. This is quite rich, powerful and concentrated. It has more freshness than the 2003, but not as much freshness as you find in 2013. Still, this is complex, deep, long and intense, yet remarkably light on its feet. This will age much longer than I will.

8,370 Views   Tasted
2016
93
Pale yellow in color, you find yellow citrus, lemongrass, pineapple, lime, crushed rock and floral notes open the nose. The green apple and citrus palate is fresh and refreshing. The wine was made from blending 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon. This splash of energetic, crisp fruit on your palate comes with sensations of lightly honeyed tropical fruit and rocks holds.

Pale yellow in color, you find yellow citrus, lemongrass, pineapple, lime, crushed rock and floral notes open the nose. The green apple and citrus palate is fresh and refreshing. The wine was made from blending 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon. This splash of energetic, crisp fruit on your palate comes with sensations of lightly honeyed tropical fruit and rocks holds.

3,634 Views   Tasted
2015
98
What a beautiful wine from start to finish. The perfume with its pineapple, butter, vanilla, flower, ginger, apricot, and honey nose connects with your senses. The wine is concentrated, lush, opulent, and powerful, with layers of sweet, ripe, and overripe, tropical fruit, vanilla, butterscotch, and honey works, due to its multiple waves of fruit that is braced by more than ample acidity, that hangs with you for a solid 60 seconds. Drink from 2023-2075.

What a beautiful wine from start to finish. The perfume with its pineapple, butter, vanilla, flower, ginger, apricot, and honey nose connects with your senses. The wine is concentrated, lush, opulent, and powerful, with layers of sweet, ripe, and overripe, tropical fruit, vanilla, butterscotch, and honey works, due to its multiple waves of fruit that is braced by more than ample acidity, that hangs with you for a solid 60 seconds. Drink from 2023-2075.

5,580 Views   Tasted
The botrytis is strong in this one. From the moment your nose meets the glass, the nutty aromatics stick out like a sore thumb. Lush, sweet, rich and opulent, the intensity found of the tropical fruits does not quit. Pineapple, apricot and nutty sensations remain with you for at least 60 seconds. The wine is concentrated, lush, opulent, vibrant and has the ability to age for generations.

The botrytis is strong in this one. From the moment your nose meets the glass, the nutty aromatics stick out like a sore thumb. Lush, sweet, rich and opulent, the intensity found of the tropical fruits does not quit. Pineapple, apricot and nutty sensations remain with you for at least 60 seconds. The wine is concentrated, lush, opulent, vibrant and has the ability to age for generations.

8,314 Views   Tasted
Stunning in every sense of the word, the wine has an incredible level of sweetness; concentration of flavor, acidity and sweet honeyed, perfectly ripe and overripe tropical fruits. It is almost too much of a good thing. Note, I said almost! Yet, everything is in an amazing sense of balance and harmony. The finish must stay with you for at least 60 seconds or longer. Made from blending 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon, the wine reached 13.9% ABV with a pH of 3.65 pH. The wine is incredibly sweet with 144 grams per liter of sugar, but this is all kept in check due to the 6.2 grams per liter of total acidities. The harvest took place from September 3, to October 21. They took 4 passes through the vineyards this year. 99 - 100 Pts

Stunning in every sense of the word, the wine has an incredible level of sweetness; concentration of flavor, acidity and sweet honeyed, perfectly ripe and overripe tropical fruits. It is almost too much of a good thing. Note, I said almost! Yet, everything is in an amazing sense of balance and harmony. The finish must stay with you for at least 60 seconds or longer. Made from blending 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon, the wine reached 13.9% ABV with a pH of 3.65 pH. The wine is incredibly sweet with 144 grams per liter of sugar, but this is all kept in check due to the 6.2 grams per liter of total acidities. The harvest took place from September 3, to October 21. They took 4 passes through the vineyards this year. 99 - 100 Pts

13,555 Views   Tasted
2015
94
A slightly, lusher, rounder, sweeter style of Y de Yquem, combining incredibly ripe, pineapple, white peach, flowers and a dab of honey in the background. Even with more opulence in this year, the racy acidity blasts over your palate.

A slightly, lusher, rounder, sweeter style of Y de Yquem, combining incredibly ripe, pineapple, white peach, flowers and a dab of honey in the background. Even with more opulence in this year, the racy acidity blasts over your palate.

3,484 Views   Tasted
2014
97
Very much on the honeyed, citrus side of the style range. Lots of sweet, ripe, very ripe and overripe yellow fruits, ranging from pineapple and grapefruits to candied lemons. There is a lot of sweetness to the wine, paired with bracing acidity at 4.9 grams per liter, coupled with 135 grams of residual sugar, for those of you that like the numbers. This could be a thinking man's Yquem.

Very much on the honeyed, citrus side of the style range. Lots of sweet, ripe, very ripe and overripe yellow fruits, ranging from pineapple and grapefruits to candied lemons. There is a lot of sweetness to the wine, paired with bracing acidity at 4.9 grams per liter, coupled with 135 grams of residual sugar, for those of you that like the numbers. This could be a thinking man's Yquem.

8,168 Views   Tasted
2013
98
Everything you want in a sweet wine is here. The vibrant acidity, layers of ripe and overripe tropical fruit, ladles of honey and freshness in the finish, which just keeps on going.

Everything you want in a sweet wine is here. The vibrant acidity, layers of ripe and overripe tropical fruit, ladles of honey and freshness in the finish, which just keeps on going.

5,230 Views   Tasted
I should be embarrassed, having tasted this wine everyday for close to a week. But it's so good, I kept going back for more. And who could blame me? It is everything a great sweet wine should be. Blazing acidity, fat, rich, ripe and over ripe pineapples, apricots, peaches, nuts and honey that does not quit, with a fresh quality amidst its layers of unctuous, honey drenched fruit. Made from a blend of 70% Semillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc, if you're a fan of sweet wines, this is clearly a glass of wine you need to taste and drink!

I should be embarrassed, having tasted this wine everyday for close to a week. But it's so good, I kept going back for more. And who could blame me? It is everything a great sweet wine should be. Blazing acidity, fat, rich, ripe and over ripe pineapples, apricots, peaches, nuts and honey that does not quit, with a fresh quality amidst its layers of unctuous, honey drenched fruit. Made from a blend of 70% Semillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc, if you're a fan of sweet wines, this is clearly a glass of wine you need to taste and drink!

6,749 Views   Tasted
Intense notes of grilled nuts open this intoxicating perfume of pineapple, orange, tangerine, vanilla custard, lemon curd, honey, candied grapefruit and spice. Intense, fat, concentrated and deep, the wine is long, lively and fresh with a honeyed pineapple and toasted, brioche finish. Interestingly, the wine will follow the pattern that took place with the 2011 Yquem and will not be offered as a future. 96-98Pts

Intense notes of grilled nuts open this intoxicating perfume of pineapple, orange, tangerine, vanilla custard, lemon curd, honey, candied grapefruit and spice. Intense, fat, concentrated and deep, the wine is long, lively and fresh with a honeyed pineapple and toasted, brioche finish. Interestingly, the wine will follow the pattern that took place with the 2011 Yquem and will not be offered as a future. 96-98Pts

7,900 Views   Tasted
2013
93
Fresh squeezed pomello, vanilla, lemon rind, flowers and the perfect honey accent kick things off. Vibrant citrus, stone and clean, fresh lemon carry this the rest of the way through.

Fresh squeezed pomello, vanilla, lemon rind, flowers and the perfect honey accent kick things off. Vibrant citrus, stone and clean, fresh lemon carry this the rest of the way through.

2,953 Views   Tasted
2012
50
No Chateau d'Yquem was produced in 2012. The entire harvest was declassified.

No Chateau d'Yquem was produced in 2012. The entire harvest was declassified.

4,734 Views   Tasted
2011
98
One sniff is all it takes before you're immersed in its web of overripe apricots, pineapple, exotic spices, flowers, white peach, roasted nuts, and honey. But, of course, the real excitement here is on the palate, with its wall of perfectly ripe, sweet, very sweet, and incredibly sweet, tropical fruits, mango, pineapple, vanilla, and lemon creme all coated with honey. Even with all this unctuosity, with all of its racy acidity, the wine is as vibrant as it is sweet. With all of its layers of sweetness, it is never tiring to taste, instead, it is an upbeat, thrill ride that can age for at least 50 or more years. Drink from 2023-2080.

One sniff is all it takes before you're immersed in its web of overripe apricots, pineapple, exotic spices, flowers, white peach, roasted nuts, and honey. But, of course, the real excitement here is on the palate, with its wall of perfectly ripe, sweet, very sweet, and incredibly sweet, tropical fruits, mango, pineapple, vanilla, and lemon creme all coated with honey. Even with all this unctuosity, with all of its racy acidity, the wine is as vibrant as it is sweet. With all of its layers of sweetness, it is never tiring to taste, instead, it is an upbeat, thrill ride that can age for at least 50 or more years. Drink from 2023-2080.

4,534 Views   Tasted
This beautiful Sauternes offers intense aromatics packed with overripe pineapple drenched in honey, roasted nuts, apricots, nectarines, white peach, flowers, orange rind and honey in the complex perfume. Thick, rich and intense, with the viscosity of motor oil, along with tropical fruit dripping with honey and the perfect amount of acidity for the 144 grams of residual sugar to give this elixir lift, 2011 Chateau d’Yquem is majestic. I do not think it’s quite at the same level of quality as the legendary 2001, but it’s not that far off. 98-99 Pts

This beautiful Sauternes offers intense aromatics packed with overripe pineapple drenched in honey, roasted nuts, apricots, nectarines, white peach, flowers, orange rind and honey in the complex perfume. Thick, rich and intense, with the viscosity of motor oil, along with tropical fruit dripping with honey and the perfect amount of acidity for the 144 grams of residual sugar to give this elixir lift, 2011 Chateau d’Yquem is majestic. I do not think it’s quite at the same level of quality as the legendary 2001, but it’s not that far off. 98-99 Pts

9,315 Views   Tasted
2011
94
Electric citrus, white a hit of white peach, honeysuckle, vanilla, flowers and crushed rocks hits your nose and palate. The wine combines a strong, racy nature and fresh, sweet, tropical citrus notes that hits the spot, especially with fresh seafood. Having some older vintages recently, this also ages quite well.

Electric citrus, white a hit of white peach, honeysuckle, vanilla, flowers and crushed rocks hits your nose and palate. The wine combines a strong, racy nature and fresh, sweet, tropical citrus notes that hits the spot, especially with fresh seafood. Having some older vintages recently, this also ages quite well.

2,957 Views   Tasted
2010
97
Leaning to, but not quite at the orange side of the style range, the wine serves up its floral, spice, candied orange, apricot, roasted nut, pineapple, vanilla and creme brulee nose. There is richness, intensity, opulence, sweetness and freshness. The wine is youthful, yet approachable, honeyed, but not cloying, balanced and vibrant. You can enjoy this today, in a decade, or in 50 years your kids can toast you.

Leaning to, but not quite at the orange side of the style range, the wine serves up its floral, spice, candied orange, apricot, roasted nut, pineapple, vanilla and creme brulee nose. There is richness, intensity, opulence, sweetness and freshness. The wine is youthful, yet approachable, honeyed, but not cloying, balanced and vibrant. You can enjoy this today, in a decade, or in 50 years your kids can toast you.

4,407 Views   Tasted
Richly textured, with layers of fat, sweet, ripe and overripe orange hued tropical fruits, pineapples, mango, white peach and apricot, all slathered in honey and tinged with vanilla. Tightly wound at the moment, there is ample acidity awarding the wine lift, as well. This feels sweeter and the textures are even more opulent than usual at the moment, even with all the acidity. I suspect it will just need time to develop and come together.

Richly textured, with layers of fat, sweet, ripe and overripe orange hued tropical fruits, pineapples, mango, white peach and apricot, all slathered in honey and tinged with vanilla. Tightly wound at the moment, there is ample acidity awarding the wine lift, as well. This feels sweeter and the textures are even more opulent than usual at the moment, even with all the acidity. I suspect it will just need time to develop and come together.

5,746 Views   Tasted
2010
93
With a distinctive floral edge to the crisp, yellow, citrus and grapefruit notes, you also find hints of apricot. The wine is bright, fresh, clean and refreshing.

With a distinctive floral edge to the crisp, yellow, citrus and grapefruit notes, you also find hints of apricot. The wine is bright, fresh, clean and refreshing.

3,612 Views   Tasted
2009
98
Young, rich, opulent, silky, fresh, vibrant, full, and deep, with enough blazing acidity to allow all the layers of vanilla and honey-coated orange and yellow tropical fruits to bathe your palate again and again with this stunning, sweet treat. OK, so this is still obviously young, and primary, but it is such a delicious experience now, that it was impossible to put my glass down. Patience might be a virtue. But there are times when patience is over rated.

Young, rich, opulent, silky, fresh, vibrant, full, and deep, with enough blazing acidity to allow all the layers of vanilla and honey-coated orange and yellow tropical fruits to bathe your palate again and again with this stunning, sweet treat. OK, so this is still obviously young, and primary, but it is such a delicious experience now, that it was impossible to put my glass down. Patience might be a virtue. But there are times when patience is over rated.

5,576 Views   Tasted
Still just a baby as you would expect, yet it is impossible not to be blown by the juxtaposition between the insanely concentrated levels of ripe and over ripe, honey drenched tropical fruit and the bracing acidity that gives the wine life. Everything here is off the hook. This is so good today, I wish I had a bottle tonight. But if I had the wine in my cellar, as tempting as it might be, I'd wait at least 1 more decade, or better yet, 2 before I started thinking about popping a cork.

Still just a baby as you would expect, yet it is impossible not to be blown by the juxtaposition between the insanely concentrated levels of ripe and over ripe, honey drenched tropical fruit and the bracing acidity that gives the wine life. Everything here is off the hook. This is so good today, I wish I had a bottle tonight. But if I had the wine in my cellar, as tempting as it might be, I'd wait at least 1 more decade, or better yet, 2 before I started thinking about popping a cork.

5,606 Views   Tasted
Stunning levels of concentration, ripe, very, ripe, extremely ripe and over ripe tropical fruits, vanilla, coconut, flowers, honey and spice. Silky textures and a sweet, honeyed finish that does not want to quit.

Stunning levels of concentration, ripe, very, ripe, extremely ripe and over ripe tropical fruits, vanilla, coconut, flowers, honey and spice. Silky textures and a sweet, honeyed finish that does not want to quit.

7,719 Views   Tasted
Thick, rich and intense, with powerful, fresh, sweet, pure waves of ripe and over ripe tropical fruit drenched in honey, nuts, crème brulee, vanilla, orange and honeysuckle, the wine coats your tongue, mouth and palate with sweetness, yet there is the right amount of acidity to give it lift. This stunning vintage of Chateau d’Yquem should outlive anyone reading this tasting note!

Thick, rich and intense, with powerful, fresh, sweet, pure waves of ripe and over ripe tropical fruit drenched in honey, nuts, crème brulee, vanilla, orange and honeysuckle, the wine coats your tongue, mouth and palate with sweetness, yet there is the right amount of acidity to give it lift. This stunning vintage of Chateau d’Yquem should outlive anyone reading this tasting note!

8,537 Views   Tasted
2008
93
Light in color and in weight, this vintage of Chateau d'Yquem wine offers with a nose of flowers, honey, apricots and pineapple. Medium bodied, with zesty acidity, this lighter style of Sauternes feels more like a Barsac on the palate. It lacks the weight, density and concentration of a great Yquem. The finish ends with fresh orange rind, pineapple, roasted nuts and apricots lightly drizzled with honey. For the price Chateau d'Yquem is selling for, I want to be blown away when I taste the wine. 2008 d'Yquem is a nice wine, and it repsents what was possible with the vintage. But that's not what I want or expect for this much money or from Chateau d'Yquem.

Light in color and in weight, this vintage of Chateau d'Yquem wine offers with a nose of flowers, honey, apricots and pineapple. Medium bodied, with zesty acidity, this lighter style of Sauternes feels more like a Barsac on the palate. It lacks the weight, density and concentration of a great Yquem. The finish ends with fresh orange rind, pineapple, roasted nuts and apricots lightly drizzled with honey. For the price Chateau d'Yquem is selling for, I want to be blown away when I taste the wine. 2008 d'Yquem is a nice wine, and it repsents what was possible with the vintage. But that's not what I want or expect for this much money or from Chateau d'Yquem.

6,544 Views   Tasted
2007
97
Unctuous, and equally racy, this full, rich, deep glass of sweet pleasure hits all the right marks. Layers of ripe, fleshy, tropical fruits slathered in honey, along with roasted almonds, vanilla, coconut, candied orange rind, and overripe pineapples from start to finish. In a decade, this will be off the hook.

Unctuous, and equally racy, this full, rich, deep glass of sweet pleasure hits all the right marks. Layers of ripe, fleshy, tropical fruits slathered in honey, along with roasted almonds, vanilla, coconut, candied orange rind, and overripe pineapples from start to finish. In a decade, this will be off the hook.

4,693 Views   Tasted
Even in its infancy, it is impossible not to fall in love with this golden beauty. Lush, concentrated, sweet, opulent, fresh and loaded with all the rich, honeyed pineapples, tropical fruits, apricots and vanilla you need.

Even in its infancy, it is impossible not to fall in love with this golden beauty. Lush, concentrated, sweet, opulent, fresh and loaded with all the rich, honeyed pineapples, tropical fruits, apricots and vanilla you need.

6,305 Views   Tasted
So young, but equally delicious, it is impossible not to love this. Rich, concentrated, luscious fruits, lift and energy with a finish that delivers layers of tropical fruits, pineapple, white peach, honey, vanilla bean, apricot and spice.

So young, but equally delicious, it is impossible not to love this. Rich, concentrated, luscious fruits, lift and energy with a finish that delivers layers of tropical fruits, pineapple, white peach, honey, vanilla bean, apricot and spice.

6,331 Views   Tasted
WOW! At just 10 years of age, it's impossible not to be blown away by this wine. Rich, concentrated, unctuous and packed with multiple layers of sweet, ripe and and very ripe golden fruits, honey, flowers and vanilla. What makes it all work is the blazing acidity that keeps it all so fresh and vibrant. You can wait decades for full maturity, and it will be worth the wait. Or, you can just pop a cork and enjoy the thrill ride as young Sauternes are not much better than this.

WOW! At just 10 years of age, it's impossible not to be blown away by this wine. Rich, concentrated, unctuous and packed with multiple layers of sweet, ripe and and very ripe golden fruits, honey, flowers and vanilla. What makes it all work is the blazing acidity that keeps it all so fresh and vibrant. You can wait decades for full maturity, and it will be worth the wait. Or, you can just pop a cork and enjoy the thrill ride as young Sauternes are not much better than this.

4,586 Views   Tasted
I've often heard that you really cannot drink enough Yquem, can you? While I really believe that's true, I'm looking forward to the day we find out for sure. Sip after sip of laser focused, perfectly ripe, tropical fruit, citrus, apricots, vanilla, white peach and nectarine all slathered in honey with incredible levels of freshness made each sniff, swirl and swallow a treat. This is quite primary, but the fruit and textures are so gorgeous, it's difficult not to love the wine in your glass.

I've often heard that you really cannot drink enough Yquem, can you? While I really believe that's true, I'm looking forward to the day we find out for sure. Sip after sip of laser focused, perfectly ripe, tropical fruit, citrus, apricots, vanilla, white peach and nectarine all slathered in honey with incredible levels of freshness made each sniff, swirl and swallow a treat. This is quite primary, but the fruit and textures are so gorgeous, it's difficult not to love the wine in your glass.

8,395 Views   Tasted
Very sweet, powerful and concentrated, with fresh, lively, honey drenched tropical fruits, vanilla and floral notes. The wine has depth, complexity and length. Now, all it needs is a decade or two of bottle age.

Very sweet, powerful and concentrated, with fresh, lively, honey drenched tropical fruits, vanilla and floral notes. The wine has depth, complexity and length. Now, all it needs is a decade or two of bottle age.

6,498 Views   Tasted
I wish I could afford this elixir. It has all the right stuff with its racy personality and decadent layers of juicy, ripe, honey coated tropical fruits, spices, vanilla, nuts and coconut. The wine is perfectly balanced between sweetness and acidity, with freshness and a beautiful purity of fruit. It sort of reminds me of the 1989 d’Yquem in its youth, except that was only $75 a half bottle.

I wish I could afford this elixir. It has all the right stuff with its racy personality and decadent layers of juicy, ripe, honey coated tropical fruits, spices, vanilla, nuts and coconut. The wine is perfectly balanced between sweetness and acidity, with freshness and a beautiful purity of fruit. It sort of reminds me of the 1989 d’Yquem in its youth, except that was only $75 a half bottle.

6,545 Views   Tasted
Some wines, due to the fame of the marquee, light up the faces of eager tasters when they are opened. The list of wines deserving of those accolades is short and sweet. Speaking of sweet, at the top of the pyramid of the world's sweet is Chateau d'Yquem. With its track record of successful vintages, that's where it belongs. 2007 d'Yquem is another great success for the chateau! With a deep gold color, the nose explodes with honey, flowers, white peaches, nectarines, orange rind, vanilla custard, nuts and overripe pineapple. There is an intensity of flavor, multiple layers of sweet, ripe, honey drenched fruit and the perfect amount of acidity to give the wine ample lift keeping it fresh.

Some wines, due to the fame of the marquee, light up the faces of eager tasters when they are opened. The list of wines deserving of those accolades is short and sweet. Speaking of sweet, at the top of the pyramid of the world's sweet is Chateau d'Yquem. With its track record of successful vintages, that's where it belongs. 2007 d'Yquem is another great success for the chateau! With a deep gold color, the nose explodes with honey, flowers, white peaches, nectarines, orange rind, vanilla custard, nuts and overripe pineapple. There is an intensity of flavor, multiple layers of sweet, ripe, honey drenched fruit and the perfect amount of acidity to give the wine ample lift keeping it fresh.

9,078 Views   Tasted
2007
91
Lemon, lime, fresh citrus, grapefruit, green apple and vanilla scents lead to a bright, round, open, citrus and grapefruit packed finish. The style of this wine is going to please some tasters more than others.

Lemon, lime, fresh citrus, grapefruit, green apple and vanilla scents lead to a bright, round, open, citrus and grapefruit packed finish. The style of this wine is going to please some tasters more than others.

5,919 Views   Tasted
2006
96
Bright, sweet, juicy, fresh, and vibrant, the wine leans to the orange fruit side of the style range with a cornucopia of ripe, and overripe candied mangos, apricots, tangerine, and pineapple. There is a wealth of sweet fruit along with bracing acidity that comes through in a discreet style. Drink from 2022-2060.

Bright, sweet, juicy, fresh, and vibrant, the wine leans to the orange fruit side of the style range with a cornucopia of ripe, and overripe candied mangos, apricots, tangerine, and pineapple. There is a wealth of sweet fruit along with bracing acidity that comes through in a discreet style. Drink from 2022-2060.

3,751 Views   Tasted
It take little effort to find the ripe, sweet, tropical fruits, apricot, candied orange peel, pineapple, vanilla, floral and honey notes in the nose. The wine is sweet, with luscious textures, freshness but not as much lift as you find in the best years. This is not cloying per se, but more freshness would really make this pop. Still, the sweet, luscious, unctuous, honey coated tropical fruits and vanilla in the finish are more than enough to put a smile on your face.

It take little effort to find the ripe, sweet, tropical fruits, apricot, candied orange peel, pineapple, vanilla, floral and honey notes in the nose. The wine is sweet, with luscious textures, freshness but not as much lift as you find in the best years. This is not cloying per se, but more freshness would really make this pop. Still, the sweet, luscious, unctuous, honey coated tropical fruits and vanilla in the finish are more than enough to put a smile on your face.

5,208 Views   Tasted
Better than the previous vintage, with its showy nose of vanilla, coconut, orange rind, apricot, marmalade, pineapple and white peaches that were soaked in honey for weeks on end. The wine is rich, intense, pure and refined, but it’s not the most concentrated or exotic style.

Better than the previous vintage, with its showy nose of vanilla, coconut, orange rind, apricot, marmalade, pineapple and white peaches that were soaked in honey for weeks on end. The wine is rich, intense, pure and refined, but it’s not the most concentrated or exotic style.

6,720 Views   Tasted
2005
97
This treat offers everything you could want in a sweet wine with countless layers of honey-slathered, vanilla-tinted ripe, and overripe tropical fruits, roasted nuts, and apricots. Rich, luscious, and also bright, crisp, vibrant, and racy, this is so good now, that it is impossible to put down your glass. But is only going to get better from here with additional years of bottle age. That is part of the magic and allure of Chateau d'Yquem! Drink from 2022-2070.

This treat offers everything you could want in a sweet wine with countless layers of honey-slathered, vanilla-tinted ripe, and overripe tropical fruits, roasted nuts, and apricots. Rich, luscious, and also bright, crisp, vibrant, and racy, this is so good now, that it is impossible to put down your glass. But is only going to get better from here with additional years of bottle age. That is part of the magic and allure of Chateau d'Yquem! Drink from 2022-2070.

4,277 Views   Tasted
Buttery, lush, sweet, ripe and overripe pineapple, apricot and orange rind coated with honey and vanilla beans are found on the nose and palate. Rich, full-bodied, luscious and sweet, the blazing jolt of acidity keeps the wine up and the taster interested. Like all vintages of Yquem, the wine takes several decades to achieve full maturity. And also like all the best vintages of d'Yquem, it's just delicious to enjoy in its youth.

Buttery, lush, sweet, ripe and overripe pineapple, apricot and orange rind coated with honey and vanilla beans are found on the nose and palate. Rich, full-bodied, luscious and sweet, the blazing jolt of acidity keeps the wine up and the taster interested. Like all vintages of Yquem, the wine takes several decades to achieve full maturity. And also like all the best vintages of d'Yquem, it's just delicious to enjoy in its youth.

6,213 Views   Tasted
This seems to be holding much of what it has to offer in reserve. With effort, the floral, pineapple, apricot and spiced honey came out. Concentrated, and pure, this is a very good wine, but it is probably not going to morph into one of the great Yquems.

This seems to be holding much of what it has to offer in reserve. With effort, the floral, pineapple, apricot and spiced honey came out. Concentrated, and pure, this is a very good wine, but it is probably not going to morph into one of the great Yquems.

5,973 Views   Tasted
Incredibly young as you might expect, yet, delicious to drink already, due to its honey, vanilla, creamsicle, pineapple upside down cake nose. Fresh, sweet and concentrated, the long finish leaves you with loads of honey coated, pineapples and apricot sensations. If this is the only vintage of d'Yquem you own, I get why you might want to pop a cork. But patience will add a lot to the wine.

Incredibly young as you might expect, yet, delicious to drink already, due to its honey, vanilla, creamsicle, pineapple upside down cake nose. Fresh, sweet and concentrated, the long finish leaves you with loads of honey coated, pineapples and apricot sensations. If this is the only vintage of d'Yquem you own, I get why you might want to pop a cork. But patience will add a lot to the wine.

7,166 Views   Tasted
With a nose that won’t let go, due to the intense floral, apricot, honey, pineapple, vanilla, custard and white peach aromas that take over the room. On the palate, the wine is rich, sweet, intense, long and fresh, serving up the difficult combination of honey coated fruit and acidity.

With a nose that won’t let go, due to the intense floral, apricot, honey, pineapple, vanilla, custard and white peach aromas that take over the room. On the palate, the wine is rich, sweet, intense, long and fresh, serving up the difficult combination of honey coated fruit and acidity.

6,233 Views   Tasted
2004
93
A nice Sauternes, but not am impressive d'Yquem. The wine is more expressive on the butterscotch, orange and semi tropical, honeyed nose, than on the palate, where you have all the acidity from a great year, without enough of the flesh and sweetness.

A nice Sauternes, but not am impressive d'Yquem. The wine is more expressive on the butterscotch, orange and semi tropical, honeyed nose, than on the palate, where you have all the acidity from a great year, without enough of the flesh and sweetness.

4,276 Views   Tasted
Not a very generous vintage of Yquem. Yes, there was sweetness in the fruit with touches of honey on the tropical nuances, but there was no real wow factor here. This is a nice enough sweet wine, but it is never going to be a great vintage of Chateau d'Yquem.

Not a very generous vintage of Yquem. Yes, there was sweetness in the fruit with touches of honey on the tropical nuances, but there was no real wow factor here. This is a nice enough sweet wine, but it is never going to be a great vintage of Chateau d'Yquem.

4,634 Views   Tasted
A nice Sauternes, but not a great d'Yquem. More interesting on the tropical, fruit filled nose, than on the palate, this will age well, but it's never going to deliver the fireworks many have come to expect from d'Yquem.

A nice Sauternes, but not a great d'Yquem. More interesting on the tropical, fruit filled nose, than on the palate, this will age well, but it's never going to deliver the fireworks many have come to expect from d'Yquem.

5,941 Views   Tasted
With a nose of vanilla, honey, flowers, apricot and tropical fruits with orange accents, the wine is rich, sweet and spicy with a honey coated, orange sickle and pineapple finish with refreshing acidity, but lacking the concentration and levels of sweetness found in the best years.

With a nose of vanilla, honey, flowers, apricot and tropical fruits with orange accents, the wine is rich, sweet and spicy with a honey coated, orange sickle and pineapple finish with refreshing acidity, but lacking the concentration and levels of sweetness found in the best years.

6,494 Views   Tasted
2004
93
Bright, peppy, energetic blast of grapefruit, lemon and honeysuckle with loads of fresh, yellow citrus with just a hint of honey in the finish. This is drinking in its sweet spot today.

Bright, peppy, energetic blast of grapefruit, lemon and honeysuckle with loads of fresh, yellow citrus with just a hint of honey in the finish. This is drinking in its sweet spot today.

2,413 Views   Tasted
With a tropical fruit edge, this reminded me of a dry Sauternes, when served double blind. Slightly oily, with plenty of crisp, citrus notes, the finish offered a touch of honey along with vibrancy.

With a tropical fruit edge, this reminded me of a dry Sauternes, when served double blind. Slightly oily, with plenty of crisp, citrus notes, the finish offered a touch of honey along with vibrancy.

2,874 Views   Tasted
2003
97
The complex nose shoots from the glass with buttered apricots, pineapple, ginger, saffron, candied orange, vanilla, and caramel. The palate is equal to the perfume with its rich, creamy, layered, opulent display of apricots, honeyed pineapple, spice, vanilla, and ginger that soothes, coats, and lingers on your palate. While the is incredibly rich, it is not fat, or cloying, but it is intense. This will age for decades. Drink from 2023-2053.

The complex nose shoots from the glass with buttered apricots, pineapple, ginger, saffron, candied orange, vanilla, and caramel. The palate is equal to the perfume with its rich, creamy, layered, opulent display of apricots, honeyed pineapple, spice, vanilla, and ginger that soothes, coats, and lingers on your palate. While the is incredibly rich, it is not fat, or cloying, but it is intense. This will age for decades. Drink from 2023-2053.

5,151 Views   Tasted
Consistently, this is a beautiful Sauternes. Fat, but not cloying, the notes of buttered pineapple, apricots, candied orange rind, caramel, butterscotch and flowers come through easily. Rich, concentrated but with energy and lift, this luscious treat continues getting better and better.

Consistently, this is a beautiful Sauternes. Fat, but not cloying, the notes of buttered pineapple, apricots, candied orange rind, caramel, butterscotch and flowers come through easily. Rich, concentrated but with energy and lift, this luscious treat continues getting better and better.

5,406 Views   Tasted
Rich, fat, unctuous, sweet and complex, while still an infant, the wine already shows off its creme brulee, molasses, butterscotch, orange rind, melted butter, cinnamon cloves, almonds and overripe apricots, pineapple and vanilla easily. There is a lot of volume here. The wine is hedonistic, palate-coating and frankly irresistible. Drink now, or in 10-20 or 30 years.

Rich, fat, unctuous, sweet and complex, while still an infant, the wine already shows off its creme brulee, molasses, butterscotch, orange rind, melted butter, cinnamon cloves, almonds and overripe apricots, pineapple and vanilla easily. There is a lot of volume here. The wine is hedonistic, palate-coating and frankly irresistible. Drink now, or in 10-20 or 30 years.

7,374 Views   Tasted
The initial baby fat from the low acidity is barely noticeable today. The wine is now popping with its perfect combination of freshness and honeyed sweetness. The layers of honey drenched tropical fruits, apricots, white peach, vanilla and a hint of custard taste, smell and feel great. Drink this now for its youthful pleasure or wait decades for an entirely different experience. It's a beauty and for d'Yquem, it's fairly priced, especially when you factor in its high quality and style.

The initial baby fat from the low acidity is barely noticeable today. The wine is now popping with its perfect combination of freshness and honeyed sweetness. The layers of honey drenched tropical fruits, apricots, white peach, vanilla and a hint of custard taste, smell and feel great. Drink this now for its youthful pleasure or wait decades for an entirely different experience. It's a beauty and for d'Yquem, it's fairly priced, especially when you factor in its high quality and style.

5,121 Views   Tasted
2003 d’Yquem is a fun wine to taste. It's absolutely delicious! It's spicy, thick, sweet, lush, fat and opulet in character with its layers of over ripe, honey drenched, juicy, pineapple, apricot, tropical fruits, vanilla and nut filled character. Not as complex as the best vintages of Chateau d'Yquem, and not quite as fresh, this is still a stunning sweet, white Bordeaux wine. And it sells for a very fair price for d'Yquem these days. Drink it now, or age it for decades.

2003 d’Yquem is a fun wine to taste. It's absolutely delicious! It's spicy, thick, sweet, lush, fat and opulet in character with its layers of over ripe, honey drenched, juicy, pineapple, apricot, tropical fruits, vanilla and nut filled character. Not as complex as the best vintages of Chateau d'Yquem, and not quite as fresh, this is still a stunning sweet, white Bordeaux wine. And it sells for a very fair price for d'Yquem these days. Drink it now, or age it for decades.

7,162 Views   Tasted
While d’Yquem is never inexpensive, recent vintages are appallingly expensive. It’s not realistic for buyers to purchase futures, or new releases for more money than previous vintages. 2003 marks the last realistically price year for d’Yquem. This is good news because the wine is fabulous. It gets better each time I taste it. With an ocean of fat, super sweet, incredibly ripe, dense, thick waves of pineapples, apricots, oranges, tangerines, peaches and nectarines all coated with macadamia nut honey, vanilla and nuts, it’s a treat to sniff, swirl and best of all sip. It’s not the 2001, but it’s a beautiful d’Yquem that sells for less than half the price.

While d’Yquem is never inexpensive, recent vintages are appallingly expensive. It’s not realistic for buyers to purchase futures, or new releases for more money than previous vintages. 2003 marks the last realistically price year for d’Yquem. This is good news because the wine is fabulous. It gets better each time I taste it. With an ocean of fat, super sweet, incredibly ripe, dense, thick waves of pineapples, apricots, oranges, tangerines, peaches and nectarines all coated with macadamia nut honey, vanilla and nuts, it’s a treat to sniff, swirl and best of all sip. It’s not the 2001, but it’s a beautiful d’Yquem that sells for less than half the price.

6,412 Views   Tasted
When first tasted on release, the wine was much thicker and seemed in need of higher levels of acidity as the wine felt slightly cloying. Over the past few years, this is starting to mature in a good direction. This will not cause any taster to forget the sublime 2001, but the wine has starting to come together and feel fresher, with better balance in the mouth. Layers of fresh pineapple, apricots, grilled nuts, nectarines and orange peel dipped in honey make up the wines flavor profile. Give this another decade and you should see a lot of improvement, if you can keep your hands off it.

When first tasted on release, the wine was much thicker and seemed in need of higher levels of acidity as the wine felt slightly cloying. Over the past few years, this is starting to mature in a good direction. This will not cause any taster to forget the sublime 2001, but the wine has starting to come together and feel fresher, with better balance in the mouth. Layers of fresh pineapple, apricots, grilled nuts, nectarines and orange peel dipped in honey make up the wines flavor profile. Give this another decade and you should see a lot of improvement, if you can keep your hands off it.

11,751 Views   Tasted
With the color of spun honey, this impressive Yquem offers a rich nose of honey, apricots, spice, orange rind, vanilla, peach and pineapple. Thick, intense, powerful and sweet, this wine really coats your mouth. The long finish is stuffed with ripe, honey drenched tropical fruit. This is a low acid vintage for Yquem, so the it lacks a little bit of lift. But the fruit shows much intensity and purity, it's exciting to drink even at this young age.

With the color of spun honey, this impressive Yquem offers a rich nose of honey, apricots, spice, orange rind, vanilla, peach and pineapple. Thick, intense, powerful and sweet, this wine really coats your mouth. The long finish is stuffed with ripe, honey drenched tropical fruit. This is a low acid vintage for Yquem, so the it lacks a little bit of lift. But the fruit shows much intensity and purity, it's exciting to drink even at this young age.

7,940 Views   Tasted
Layers of rich, over ripe, tropical fruit dipped in honey with coconut accents. The wine has the perfect dose of acidity giving it freshness and lift.

Layers of rich, over ripe, tropical fruit dipped in honey with coconut accents. The wine has the perfect dose of acidity giving it freshness and lift.

4,231 Views   Tasted
For my palate, this majestic elixir is the best Yquem since 1990, following the flawless 2001 of course. Tasted 3 times with the same results, this rich, unctuous, ripe, intensely concentrated wine explodes from the glass with a cornucopia of honeyed, floral, spice and tropical scents. The wine glides across your palate in continuos waves of sensuous, ripe, sweet fruit. 2003 is like a blend of 88 & 90 to me. Very dense, powerful and concentrated. A little more acidity would have pushed the score higher.

For my palate, this majestic elixir is the best Yquem since 1990, following the flawless 2001 of course. Tasted 3 times with the same results, this rich, unctuous, ripe, intensely concentrated wine explodes from the glass with a cornucopia of honeyed, floral, spice and tropical scents. The wine glides across your palate in continuos waves of sensuous, ripe, sweet fruit. 2003 is like a blend of 88 & 90 to me. Very dense, powerful and concentrated. A little more acidity would have pushed the score higher.

4,484 Views   Tasted
2002
93
With an interesting nose combining Riesling like petrol scents with the smells of tropical fruits and citrus rind, the wine is fresh, elegant, plush and drinking in a great place today.

With an interesting nose combining Riesling like petrol scents with the smells of tropical fruits and citrus rind, the wine is fresh, elegant, plush and drinking in a great place today.

4,716 Views   Tasted
Y is the dry white wine of Chateau d’Yquem. This powerful, intense, concentrated wine is filled with ripe tropical fruit, vanilla, floral and mineral notes. This richly textured wine, lingers on your palate with sensations of lightly honeyed tropical fruit and rocks.

Y is the dry white wine of Chateau d’Yquem. This powerful, intense, concentrated wine is filled with ripe tropical fruit, vanilla, floral and mineral notes. This richly textured wine, lingers on your palate with sensations of lightly honeyed tropical fruit and rocks.

5,160 Views   Tasted
2001
100
Honey, flowers, apricots, pineapples and spice might be what you initially notice. But it is the compelling balance between the incredible levels of richness, sweet honey-slathered yellow fruits and blazing acidity that rocks your glass! Still a baby, this is probably going to be a 100-year wine!

Honey, flowers, apricots, pineapples and spice might be what you initially notice. But it is the compelling balance between the incredible levels of richness, sweet honey-slathered yellow fruits and blazing acidity that rocks your glass! Still a baby, this is probably going to be a 100-year wine!

9,321 Views   Tasted
OK, this is too young. But it is so incredibly good, who cares? The array of roasted nuts with cashews and almonds leading the pack were perfect with the roasted, overripe, sweet, honey-coated pineapple. vanilla, marzipan and apricots. Rich, sweet, intense and unctuous, but due to the bolt of racy acidity, the wine was never cloying or tiring to drink. Two of us managed to polish off a split on a hot afternoon. The only issue was, it was too bad we didn't have a full-bottle, so we could have enjoyed some the next day.

OK, this is too young. But it is so incredibly good, who cares? The array of roasted nuts with cashews and almonds leading the pack were perfect with the roasted, overripe, sweet, honey-coated pineapple. vanilla, marzipan and apricots. Rich, sweet, intense and unctuous, but due to the bolt of racy acidity, the wine was never cloying or tiring to drink. Two of us managed to polish off a split on a hot afternoon. The only issue was, it was too bad we didn't have a full-bottle, so we could have enjoyed some the next day.

9,356 Views   Tasted
Not even close to mature, but who cares? This is so good. Unctuous, fresh, concentrated, sweet and complex, the endless layers of ripe, very ripe, and overripe apricots, pineapples, and assorted tropical fruits all slather with honey is a show stopper! But that would not be possible without all of the wines concentration and the blazing bolt of acidity that gives the wine the fuel it needs to jump up, and keep on going. Drink this now, or leave it for your kids in 50 years, or your grandchildren in 100 years. It's that good!

Not even close to mature, but who cares? This is so good. Unctuous, fresh, concentrated, sweet and complex, the endless layers of ripe, very ripe, and overripe apricots, pineapples, and assorted tropical fruits all slather with honey is a show stopper! But that would not be possible without all of the wines concentration and the blazing bolt of acidity that gives the wine the fuel it needs to jump up, and keep on going. Drink this now, or leave it for your kids in 50 years, or your grandchildren in 100 years. It's that good!

10,700 Views   Tasted
This rockstar wine never fails to please the palate and the senses in every way. Incredibly concentrated, yet light on its feet. Sweetness galore, but with the racy acidity needed to give it lift. The fruit has the beautiful, sense of purity and everything is slathered in honey. I need more!

This rockstar wine never fails to please the palate and the senses in every way. Incredibly concentrated, yet light on its feet. Sweetness galore, but with the racy acidity needed to give it lift. The fruit has the beautiful, sense of purity and everything is slathered in honey. I need more!

10,779 Views   Tasted
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Purity, intensity, freshness, density and complexity in spades. This is as good as a sweet wine gets. The scary thing is, it has not even budged towards maturity. Having tasted Yquem at 80 years of age, current owners will never see it. But who cares as this is damn delicious today?

What can I say that hasn't already been said? Purity, intensity, freshness, density and complexity in spades. This is as good as a sweet wine gets. The scary thing is, it has not even budged towards maturity. Having tasted Yquem at 80 years of age, current owners will never see it. But who cares as this is damn delicious today?

11,661 Views   Tasted
Take the ripest, juiciest pineapple you have ever seen, meaning today, just touching brings the juice out, tomorrow, it will begin falling apart. Place it in a hot pan filled with butter, brown sugar, honey and apricots for the aromas. Drizzle in the juice of a Meyer lemon to give it all the acidity it needs and sip slowly, to experience the full essence of its stunning, unctuous personality. The wine does not go softly into the good night as the finish remains for more than 60 seconds!

Take the ripest, juiciest pineapple you have ever seen, meaning today, just touching brings the juice out, tomorrow, it will begin falling apart. Place it in a hot pan filled with butter, brown sugar, honey and apricots for the aromas. Drizzle in the juice of a Meyer lemon to give it all the acidity it needs and sip slowly, to experience the full essence of its stunning, unctuous personality. The wine does not go softly into the good night as the finish remains for more than 60 seconds!

11,536 Views   Tasted
This is a thrill a sip wine. It's so young and so beautiful in all its fresh, ripe, pineapple, floral, vanilla, creme custard, honey nut glory. The sweetness is perfect and the racy acidity takes it to another level from there. If you're over 50, start drinking it now for the pleasure. If you're under 30, save it for 30 years.

This is a thrill a sip wine. It's so young and so beautiful in all its fresh, ripe, pineapple, floral, vanilla, creme custard, honey nut glory. The sweetness is perfect and the racy acidity takes it to another level from there. If you're over 50, start drinking it now for the pleasure. If you're under 30, save it for 30 years.

12,983 Views   Tasted
If some artists or performers are known and described by only one name, Jimi, Picasso, Matisse, Madonna, Garbo, perhaps the only descriptor needed for this wine is 2001 d’Yquem. I know that works for anyone lucky enough to have tasted this nectar. The best vintage since 1975 for the estate is off the charts, in all the right ways! It blends intense, massive layers of pure, ripe, honey drenched fruits with bracing acidity give it a laser like focus that is found in few other wines. While it’s not close to maturity, drinking this now is a thrill a sip ride. If you lay down a few bottles for your kids, OK, make that your grandchildren, they will remember you fondly.

If some artists or performers are known and described by only one name, Jimi, Picasso, Matisse, Madonna, Garbo, perhaps the only descriptor needed for this wine is 2001 d’Yquem. I know that works for anyone lucky enough to have tasted this nectar. The best vintage since 1975 for the estate is off the charts, in all the right ways! It blends intense, massive layers of pure, ripe, honey drenched fruits with bracing acidity give it a laser like focus that is found in few other wines. While it’s not close to maturity, drinking this now is a thrill a sip ride. If you lay down a few bottles for your kids, OK, make that your grandchildren, they will remember you fondly.

15,196 Views   Tasted
It's funny. I taste this wine at least a few times a year and I seldom take notes, thinking I've already posted a current view on this sexy, sweet elixir. I was surprised to see only one note published. Time to fix that situation. If aromatics are your thing, the blast of fresh green apples, apricot, smoke, caramel, white peach, molasses and pineapple slathered in honey is the right place to start. Thick, rich, intense and packed with countless layers of ripe, and over ripe fruit, the wine ends with a dense, silky, fat, opulent finish. The zippy acidity keeps everything where it should be. Drink this now, or save for your kids, kids and let them taste their first 100 year old wine.

It's funny. I taste this wine at least a few times a year and I seldom take notes, thinking I've already posted a current view on this sexy, sweet elixir. I was surprised to see only one note published. Time to fix that situation. If aromatics are your thing, the blast of fresh green apples, apricot, smoke, caramel, white peach, molasses and pineapple slathered in honey is the right place to start. Thick, rich, intense and packed with countless layers of ripe, and over ripe fruit, the wine ends with a dense, silky, fat, opulent finish. The zippy acidity keeps everything where it should be. Drink this now, or save for your kids, kids and let them taste their first 100 year old wine.

15,450 Views   Tasted
This perfect Sauternes gets better every time I taste it. Thick, rich, ripe, extremely concentrated with honeyed, tropical fruit and the right jolt of racy acidity to give it lift and keep everything in balance.

This perfect Sauternes gets better every time I taste it. Thick, rich, ripe, extremely concentrated with honeyed, tropical fruit and the right jolt of racy acidity to give it lift and keep everything in balance.

15,114 Views   Tasted
2000
91
Green apples, rocks, stones, flowers, and orange rind mix with a dash of honeysuckle and caramel in the nose, leaving you with freshness and nuances of saffron, orange, apricot, and yellow citrus on the back end. Drink from 2023-2028.

Green apples, rocks, stones, flowers, and orange rind mix with a dash of honeysuckle and caramel in the nose, leaving you with freshness and nuances of saffron, orange, apricot, and yellow citrus on the back end. Drink from 2023-2028.

2,068 Views   Tasted
With hints of peach and apricot, that adds a touch of sweetness to the strong citrus component, the wine is medium bodied, bright and crisp.

With hints of peach and apricot, that adds a touch of sweetness to the strong citrus component, the wine is medium bodied, bright and crisp.

3,092 Views   Tasted
1999
92
More interesting on its nose with all of its butterscotch, honey, butter, caramel, orange, and bright pineapple notes. Medium-bodied, energetic, crisp, and fresh with honeyed, yellow tropical fruit and orange pith on the palate. This is a very bright, semi-sweet style of d'Yquem. Drink from 2022-2030.

More interesting on its nose with all of its butterscotch, honey, butter, caramel, orange, and bright pineapple notes. Medium-bodied, energetic, crisp, and fresh with honeyed, yellow tropical fruit and orange pith on the palate. This is a very bright, semi-sweet style of d'Yquem. Drink from 2022-2030.

3,803 Views   Tasted
Other than the label, there is no reason to own or buy this wine. An abundance of better choices at half the price are available from the 01 vintage. Light honeyed yellow fruit without much centration of boytrytis make this an easy pass.

Other than the label, there is no reason to own or buy this wine. An abundance of better choices at half the price are available from the 01 vintage. Light honeyed yellow fruit without much centration of boytrytis make this an easy pass.

4,287 Views   Tasted
1998
93
Medium bodied, lighter style of d'Yquem, with a lean to the orange, apricot, tangerine side of the style range. This is an Yquem that does not require, or even ask for decades of age. It's quite tasty today.

Medium bodied, lighter style of d'Yquem, with a lean to the orange, apricot, tangerine side of the style range. This is an Yquem that does not require, or even ask for decades of age. It's quite tasty today.

5,338 Views   Tasted
Due to the lack of botrytis in the vintage, I was not expecting to like the 1998 d'Yquem as much as I did. I love it when a wine shows much better than expected! The nose was filled with vanilla, honeysuckle, apricot, pineapple and spice. Medium/full bodied, sweet, round and lush, the wine ends with a delicious mouthful of candied orange, apricot, spice, vanilla custard and sweet pineapple.

Due to the lack of botrytis in the vintage, I was not expecting to like the 1998 d'Yquem as much as I did. I love it when a wine shows much better than expected! The nose was filled with vanilla, honeysuckle, apricot, pineapple and spice. Medium/full bodied, sweet, round and lush, the wine ends with a delicious mouthful of candied orange, apricot, spice, vanilla custard and sweet pineapple.

7,786 Views   Tasted
1997
96
This is one of the better buys for Chateau d'Yquem these days. What a beautiful expression of sweet wine. The nose pops with sweet, ripe and overripe pineapple, apricots, spice, coconut, creme de caramel, candied orange rind and butterscotch. Rich, sweet, lusciously textured waves of honey-coated tropical fruits on the mid-palate, that come along with the right shot of acidity make this an effortless sweet treat to drink. This is fabulous today and it is only going to get better from here for the next 2-3 or 4 decades!

This is one of the better buys for Chateau d'Yquem these days. What a beautiful expression of sweet wine. The nose pops with sweet, ripe and overripe pineapple, apricots, spice, coconut, creme de caramel, candied orange rind and butterscotch. Rich, sweet, lusciously textured waves of honey-coated tropical fruits on the mid-palate, that come along with the right shot of acidity make this an effortless sweet treat to drink. This is fabulous today and it is only going to get better from here for the next 2-3 or 4 decades!

5,613 Views   Tasted
On a rapid path to full maturity, the wine delivers a beautiful, purity of ripe, and over ripe tropical fruit, honey, floral and spice notes, all wrapped up in an elegant, silky, opulently, textured bundle.

On a rapid path to full maturity, the wine delivers a beautiful, purity of ripe, and over ripe tropical fruit, honey, floral and spice notes, all wrapped up in an elegant, silky, opulently, textured bundle.

6,144 Views   Tasted
The nose is complex, with time, buttered popcorn, caramel, butterscotch, candied orange, honey, pineapple and apricot scents emerge. Fresh, sweet, concentrated, vibrant, long and not at all heavy or cloying, this is still quite young, yet, with its all its attributes, it's a treat to drink today. Patient consumers will be happy in 10, 20, 30 or or more years I'm quite sure. This was the perfect end to a great Thanksgiving dinner.

The nose is complex, with time, buttered popcorn, caramel, butterscotch, candied orange, honey, pineapple and apricot scents emerge. Fresh, sweet, concentrated, vibrant, long and not at all heavy or cloying, this is still quite young, yet, with its all its attributes, it's a treat to drink today. Patient consumers will be happy in 10, 20, 30 or or more years I'm quite sure. This was the perfect end to a great Thanksgiving dinner.

5,747 Views   Tasted
Opened for International Sweet Wine day, this was a stunner. White peaches, flowers, apricot and pineapples were slathered in honey and vanilla. The wine is rich, concentrated, full bodied and luscious, with sweetness, viscosity and freshness. Still young, this is great now and it's only going to get better with 5, 10, 20 or 30 years of age, depending on how you like it.

Opened for International Sweet Wine day, this was a stunner. White peaches, flowers, apricot and pineapples were slathered in honey and vanilla. The wine is rich, concentrated, full bodied and luscious, with sweetness, viscosity and freshness. Still young, this is great now and it's only going to get better with 5, 10, 20 or 30 years of age, depending on how you like it.

6,765 Views   Tasted
Another fabulous tasting experience. It's a treat to sample the balancing act between the layers of perfectly ripe, honeyed tropical fruits and the acidity that keeps everything lively and fresh. Still young, you can pop a cork today for its youthful exuberance, or wait a few decades for the caramel, butterscotch and spicy notes to appear.

Another fabulous tasting experience. It's a treat to sample the balancing act between the layers of perfectly ripe, honeyed tropical fruits and the acidity that keeps everything lively and fresh. Still young, you can pop a cork today for its youthful exuberance, or wait a few decades for the caramel, butterscotch and spicy notes to appear.

6,103 Views   Tasted
Drinking d'Yquem never gets old. The beautiful, perfectly ripe tropical fruit drenched in honey, vanilla and spicy tones, coupled with racy acidity keeps the wine fresh and exciting. Still young, the wine has barely moved, except in texture. But you do not have to wait for decades to experience this wine. It's great today and will be even better if, or when your grandchildren open it. That is... if you can keep your hands off it.

Drinking d'Yquem never gets old. The beautiful, perfectly ripe tropical fruit drenched in honey, vanilla and spicy tones, coupled with racy acidity keeps the wine fresh and exciting. Still young, the wine has barely moved, except in texture. But you do not have to wait for decades to experience this wine. It's great today and will be even better if, or when your grandchildren open it. That is... if you can keep your hands off it.

6,715 Views   Tasted
If you want Chateau d'Yquem in your cellar and you do not want to spend the money for the 2001, run, do not walk and buy this wine. It's a very good example of what makes Yquem great! With the perfect level of acidity to create freshness and lift, the extremely ripe pineapple, apricot, tropical fruit, floral, vanilla, nut and spice aromas are worth the price of admission. On the palate, the elegant wine is not heavy, it's about balance, purity and sweetness, coupled with lift. If you like your Sauternes young, and most people do, pop a cork! If you prefer waiting, there is no hurry on this winner.

If you want Chateau d'Yquem in your cellar and you do not want to spend the money for the 2001, run, do not walk and buy this wine. It's a very good example of what makes Yquem great! With the perfect level of acidity to create freshness and lift, the extremely ripe pineapple, apricot, tropical fruit, floral, vanilla, nut and spice aromas are worth the price of admission. On the palate, the elegant wine is not heavy, it's about balance, purity and sweetness, coupled with lift. If you like your Sauternes young, and most people do, pop a cork! If you prefer waiting, there is no hurry on this winner.

7,909 Views   Tasted
Medium rich with honeyed, tropical fruit notes and vanilla. This is a very well made Yquem, perfectly balancing acidity and sweetness. But, it lacks the concentration, depth and level of botrytis found in the best years. For my palate, this is probably what a vintage like 70 or 71 tasted like young.

Medium rich with honeyed, tropical fruit notes and vanilla. This is a very well made Yquem, perfectly balancing acidity and sweetness. But, it lacks the concentration, depth and level of botrytis found in the best years. For my palate, this is probably what a vintage like 70 or 71 tasted like young.

5,029 Views   Tasted
1996
95
A beauty that is already fun to taste and enjoy for its honeyed, apricot, spice, pineapple, orange peel and vanilla bean profile. Low acid and fat in style, this glass of sunshine and pleasure hits the sweet spot.

A beauty that is already fun to taste and enjoy for its honeyed, apricot, spice, pineapple, orange peel and vanilla bean profile. Low acid and fat in style, this glass of sunshine and pleasure hits the sweet spot.

7,043 Views   Tasted
Pineapple, apricot and tropical fruits coated with honey and nuts in the perfume, there is a sweetness and intensity of overripe orange and spicy tropical fruits coated with honey, with enough acidity to keep the wine fresh. This already drinking well and should for decades.

Pineapple, apricot and tropical fruits coated with honey and nuts in the perfume, there is a sweetness and intensity of overripe orange and spicy tropical fruits coated with honey, with enough acidity to keep the wine fresh. This already drinking well and should for decades.

6,589 Views   Tasted
1996 Chateau d'Yquem opens to exotic scents of honey coated, apricots, vanilla, white peaches, flowers, roasted nuts, orange rind and pineapple. This rich, sweet, thick, full bodied wine is filled with honey drenched, tropical fruit with the perfect amount of acidity to give it lift. Still young, another decade will add a lot to this stunning Sauternes.

1996 Chateau d'Yquem opens to exotic scents of honey coated, apricots, vanilla, white peaches, flowers, roasted nuts, orange rind and pineapple. This rich, sweet, thick, full bodied wine is filled with honey drenched, tropical fruit with the perfect amount of acidity to give it lift. Still young, another decade will add a lot to this stunning Sauternes.

8,399 Views   Tasted
1995
94
The is a clearly a nice Sauternes, but it's not a great Yquem. Made in a discreet, subdued style, the typical flamboyance, wealth of fruit and bracing acidity is just not there.

The is a clearly a nice Sauternes, but it's not a great Yquem. Made in a discreet, subdued style, the typical flamboyance, wealth of fruit and bracing acidity is just not there.

4,060 Views   Tasted
This is d'Yquem light. If you're a fan of vintages like 1999, you will like this more than I did. The fruit is sweet, soft and open. There is a nice honeyed, tropical character to the wine, but it lacks the concentration and depth found in the top years for this wine.

This is d'Yquem light. If you're a fan of vintages like 1999, you will like this more than I did. The fruit is sweet, soft and open. There is a nice honeyed, tropical character to the wine, but it lacks the concentration and depth found in the top years for this wine.

6,618 Views   Tasted
1994
85
It's almost always exciting to taste any vintage of d'Yquem. Especially one that you've never seen before. On the other hand, there's an exception for every rule. 94 Yquem is the exception to the rule. This could have been a bottle of "Y", the dry wine produced by Yquem. It lacked concenttration, sweetness and botrytis. Petrol, apricots and unclean flavors, plus a large tab for an overpriced wine is what you'll find in this vintage of off Yquem. This is not a bad wine, it's a poor Yquem. There is a difference. This is not a wine to buy.

It's almost always exciting to taste any vintage of d'Yquem. Especially one that you've never seen before. On the other hand, there's an exception for every rule. 94 Yquem is the exception to the rule. This could have been a bottle of "Y", the dry wine produced by Yquem. It lacked concenttration, sweetness and botrytis. Petrol, apricots and unclean flavors, plus a large tab for an overpriced wine is what you'll find in this vintage of off Yquem. This is not a bad wine, it's a poor Yquem. There is a difference. This is not a wine to buy.

7,468 Views   Tasted
1990
99
This bottle was riveting. Bordering on perfection, the incredible blend of concentration, intensity, sweetness, vibrance, purity, length, and most importantly, its racy lift makes this one of life's great, sweet treats. Drink from 2023-2075.

This bottle was riveting. Bordering on perfection, the incredible blend of concentration, intensity, sweetness, vibrance, purity, length, and most importantly, its racy lift makes this one of life's great, sweet treats. Drink from 2023-2075.

3,984 Views   Tasted
1990 d’Yquem continues gaining complexity. Now you find an enthralling perfume packed with roasted apricots, overripe pineapple, butterscotch, creme brûlée, toasted marshmallow, spice, flowers and honey. On the palate the unctuous wine is poised perfectly between its waves of sweet honeyed fruit and racy acidity. As good as it is now, it’s only going to get better over the following 3-5 decades or longer!

1990 d’Yquem continues gaining complexity. Now you find an enthralling perfume packed with roasted apricots, overripe pineapple, butterscotch, creme brûlée, toasted marshmallow, spice, flowers and honey. On the palate the unctuous wine is poised perfectly between its waves of sweet honeyed fruit and racy acidity. As good as it is now, it’s only going to get better over the following 3-5 decades or longer!

5,629 Views   Tasted
From a half bottle, purchased on release, the wine is loaded with buttery, pineapple, apricots, orange and honey, with floral accents and a hint of butterscotch. Plus, rich, round, sweet and lively, the wine is just starting to show its secondary development. Talk about pure pleasure in a glass.

From a half bottle, purchased on release, the wine is loaded with buttery, pineapple, apricots, orange and honey, with floral accents and a hint of butterscotch. Plus, rich, round, sweet and lively, the wine is just starting to show its secondary development. Talk about pure pleasure in a glass.

6,555 Views   Tasted
Served in Reidel Sommelier glasses, the aromatics exploded with an array of secondary notes. I mention the glasses, because I have never experienced all the buttered popcorn, creme caramel, Cointreau, brown sugar, crème brulee, melted butter and white chocolate aromas that were sitting on top of the honey coated, tropical fruits before. Dense, but not overbearing, rich, but not cloying, fresh, but never overly acidic, everything was in perfect balance and harmony. The scary thing is, the wine is just starting to enter its second phase of development. What happens in the next 30 years is going to be even better!

Served in Reidel Sommelier glasses, the aromatics exploded with an array of secondary notes. I mention the glasses, because I have never experienced all the buttered popcorn, creme caramel, Cointreau, brown sugar, crème brulee, melted butter and white chocolate aromas that were sitting on top of the honey coated, tropical fruits before. Dense, but not overbearing, rich, but not cloying, fresh, but never overly acidic, everything was in perfect balance and harmony. The scary thing is, the wine is just starting to enter its second phase of development. What happens in the next 30 years is going to be even better!

8,907 Views   Tasted
Like all great wine, this just keeps improving with age. I should age as well. Rich, luscious, opulent and concentrated, there is intensity of flavor, purity of fruit and a complexity few other wines offer. The finish, with its perfect blend of honey coated fruits and bracing acidity must keep you busy for at least 50 seconds. At 27, this is just starting to open. You can drink this now, wait a decade or save it for your grandchildren. Me, I'm not waiting, this is a beauty.

Like all great wine, this just keeps improving with age. I should age as well. Rich, luscious, opulent and concentrated, there is intensity of flavor, purity of fruit and a complexity few other wines offer. The finish, with its perfect blend of honey coated fruits and bracing acidity must keep you busy for at least 50 seconds. At 27, this is just starting to open. You can drink this now, wait a decade or save it for your grandchildren. Me, I'm not waiting, this is a beauty.

7,134 Views   Tasted
Floral, honey, creme brulee, apricot, nectarine and orange make a beautiful, complex perfume. Viscous and intense. Very concentrated. Lots of ripe tropical pineapple, peach, pear, apricot and cherry fruit that seems drenched in honey and topped with vanilla. Mouth coating. It does not have acidity found in the 01. But the wine is not cloying. The finish is long, pure and the way to end a splendid night of wines and friendship, both old and new.

Floral, honey, creme brulee, apricot, nectarine and orange make a beautiful, complex perfume. Viscous and intense. Very concentrated. Lots of ripe tropical pineapple, peach, pear, apricot and cherry fruit that seems drenched in honey and topped with vanilla. Mouth coating. It does not have acidity found in the 01. But the wine is not cloying. The finish is long, pure and the way to end a splendid night of wines and friendship, both old and new.

6,379 Views   Tasted
Golden honey in color, potent scents of toast, honey, fresh baked croissants, grilled nuts, pineapple, apricot and white peaches waft from the glass. Rich, unctuous, sweet, dense, ripe pineapple, mango, apricot, spice, vanilla and over ripe peaches drenched in honey coat your palate. This is a delicious, ripe, sweet Chateau d'Yquem that will age and improve for decades.

Golden honey in color, potent scents of toast, honey, fresh baked croissants, grilled nuts, pineapple, apricot and white peaches waft from the glass. Rich, unctuous, sweet, dense, ripe pineapple, mango, apricot, spice, vanilla and over ripe peaches drenched in honey coat your palate. This is a delicious, ripe, sweet Chateau d'Yquem that will age and improve for decades.

13,904 Views   Tasted
The wine is a thrill to put your nose in. That is if you’re turned on by ripe apricots, peaches, nectarines, pineapple, flower, honey, grilled nuts and coconut aromatics. Thick, rich, dense and concentrated, this powerful wine fills every nook and cranny in your mouth with fat sensations of ripe fruit, dripping with honey and roasted nut flavors. The intense long finish has enough acidity to keep everything in balance.

The wine is a thrill to put your nose in. That is if you’re turned on by ripe apricots, peaches, nectarines, pineapple, flower, honey, grilled nuts and coconut aromatics. Thick, rich, dense and concentrated, this powerful wine fills every nook and cranny in your mouth with fat sensations of ripe fruit, dripping with honey and roasted nut flavors. The intense long finish has enough acidity to keep everything in balance.

8,155 Views   Tasted
Remains youthful. The wine is a thrill to put your nose in. That is if you’re turned on by ripe apricots, peaches, nectarines, pineapple, flower, honey, grilled nuts and coconut aromatics. Thick, rich, dense and concentrated, this powerful wine fills every nook and cranny in your mouth with fat sensations of ripe fruit, dripping with honey and roasted nut flavors. The intense long finish has enough acidity to keep everything in balance.

Remains youthful. The wine is a thrill to put your nose in. That is if you’re turned on by ripe apricots, peaches, nectarines, pineapple, flower, honey, grilled nuts and coconut aromatics. Thick, rich, dense and concentrated, this powerful wine fills every nook and cranny in your mouth with fat sensations of ripe fruit, dripping with honey and roasted nut flavors. The intense long finish has enough acidity to keep everything in balance.

8,602 Views   Tasted
Massive levels of ripe, tropical, honeyed fruit with the perfect amount of acidity to give it lift. As good as it is, it's going to keep improving for decades

Massive levels of ripe, tropical, honeyed fruit with the perfect amount of acidity to give it lift. As good as it is, it's going to keep improving for decades

7,042 Views   Tasted
Layer after layer of the richest, sexiest, lush, tropical fruit you ever tasted all dipped in honey. As concentrated and powerful as it is, you never tire from sipping it as there's enough acidity to offer it lift. It’s an amazing, decadent, tasting sensation!

Layer after layer of the richest, sexiest, lush, tropical fruit you ever tasted all dipped in honey. As concentrated and powerful as it is, you never tire from sipping it as there's enough acidity to offer it lift. It’s an amazing, decadent, tasting sensation!

6,999 Views   Tasted
Deeply colored, offers flawless balance, intense sweetness and the perfect amount of acidity to keep it fresh. This is incredibly thick and concentrated with aromatics of honeyed pineapples, coconut custard and spicy apricots. Still very young and primary.

Deeply colored, offers flawless balance, intense sweetness and the perfect amount of acidity to keep it fresh. This is incredibly thick and concentrated with aromatics of honeyed pineapples, coconut custard and spicy apricots. Still very young and primary.

7,083 Views   Tasted
1989
98
Freshness, purity, and more layers of roasted, apricots, pineapples, yellow plums, nuts, caramel, and spice slathered in honey and butterscotch are only part of what you will encounter here. It is the racy lift, and vibrance on the palate that makes it all work, finishing with its lively endnotes. As good as this is, it is only getting started. I imagine this will drink well for at least another 50-75 years if well stored. That is why d'Yquem is d'Yquem.

Freshness, purity, and more layers of roasted, apricots, pineapples, yellow plums, nuts, caramel, and spice slathered in honey and butterscotch are only part of what you will encounter here. It is the racy lift, and vibrance on the palate that makes it all work, finishing with its lively endnotes. As good as this is, it is only getting started. I imagine this will drink well for at least another 50-75 years if well stored. That is why d'Yquem is d'Yquem.

5,450 Views   Tasted
It is impossible to get tired of tasting d'Yquem. And why should they? With that special razor's edge of acidity that cuts through all the sweet, overripe, pineapple, apricot, mango, nut, and other assorted tropical fruits all coated with honey, this is a gem on your palate. It is incredible to think this is still in its adolescent stage. I am sure your grandchildren will be enjoying this wine in their old age.

It is impossible to get tired of tasting d'Yquem. And why should they? With that special razor's edge of acidity that cuts through all the sweet, overripe, pineapple, apricot, mango, nut, and other assorted tropical fruits all coated with honey, this is a gem on your palate. It is incredible to think this is still in its adolescent stage. I am sure your grandchildren will be enjoying this wine in their old age.

5,421 Views   Tasted
It is never the sweetness on its own that makes this work. It is the razor-edged acidity that makes the honeyed, tropical yellow and orange fruit, flowers, butterscotch, burnt caramel, and vanilla pop. Young, fresh, vibrant, full-bodied and complex, drink it now or save it for your kids. I am sure this will age for at least another 30-40 or 50 years if well-stored!

It is never the sweetness on its own that makes this work. It is the razor-edged acidity that makes the honeyed, tropical yellow and orange fruit, flowers, butterscotch, burnt caramel, and vanilla pop. Young, fresh, vibrant, full-bodied and complex, drink it now or save it for your kids. I am sure this will age for at least another 30-40 or 50 years if well-stored!

4,594 Views   Tasted
This just keeps getting better and better, like all great wines! Thick and rich, with enough extract of ripe and over ripe tropical fruit slathered in honey that you want to eat it. But the racy acidity keeps it all in check. Drink this now, wait a year, 5 years, 10 years, 20 years of gift it to your kids. Great stuff!

This just keeps getting better and better, like all great wines! Thick and rich, with enough extract of ripe and over ripe tropical fruit slathered in honey that you want to eat it. But the racy acidity keeps it all in check. Drink this now, wait a year, 5 years, 10 years, 20 years of gift it to your kids. Great stuff!

5,244 Views   Tasted
The right, no make that perfect balance of freshness, sweetness and honey slathered fruit that coats your palate with the essence of ripe, very ripe and extremely ripe.

The right, no make that perfect balance of freshness, sweetness and honey slathered fruit that coats your palate with the essence of ripe, very ripe and extremely ripe.

5,926 Views   Tasted
No matter how many times I taste this elixir, it's always an exciting tasting experience. I've been lucky enough to have tasted this vintage twice, in the last 3 three and both times, the pineapple, floral, vanilla, apricot, spice and white peaches drenched in honey made a compelling bouquet. On the palate, over the years the wine has continued putting on weight and gaining new levels of complexity. There is a beautiful purity to the fruit that is not found in other wines. The acidity keeps it fresh and lively. At 24 years of age, it's still a baby. Drink it now, or save it for your lucky grandchildren.

No matter how many times I taste this elixir, it's always an exciting tasting experience. I've been lucky enough to have tasted this vintage twice, in the last 3 three and both times, the pineapple, floral, vanilla, apricot, spice and white peaches drenched in honey made a compelling bouquet. On the palate, over the years the wine has continued putting on weight and gaining new levels of complexity. There is a beautiful purity to the fruit that is not found in other wines. The acidity keeps it fresh and lively. At 24 years of age, it's still a baby. Drink it now, or save it for your lucky grandchildren.

7,186 Views   Tasted
Rich, filled with honey covered tropical fruit and acidity to give it lift should deliver pleasure for decades.

Rich, filled with honey covered tropical fruit and acidity to give it lift should deliver pleasure for decades.

7,452 Views   Tasted
Honeyed apricots, flowers, vanilla, oak aromas were easy to catch. Very rich and fat on the palate. Beautiful, seamless finish.

Honeyed apricots, flowers, vanilla, oak aromas were easy to catch. Very rich and fat on the palate. Beautiful, seamless finish.

5,367 Views   Tasted
Yquem has a unique style that’s not duplicated. Ripe, honeyed pineapple, peach, nectarine, apricot and orange flowers fill the perfume. Rich, concentrated but with enough acidity toe keep it fresh. The long, honey drenched finish is a pleasure and treat.

Yquem has a unique style that’s not duplicated. Ripe, honeyed pineapple, peach, nectarine, apricot and orange flowers fill the perfume. Rich, concentrated but with enough acidity toe keep it fresh. The long, honey drenched finish is a pleasure and treat.

5,295 Views   Tasted
1988
99
Just a fabulous wine from the moment the wine hit the glass. The explosive nose, with its coconut, butterscotch, creme brulee, candied orange, flowers, vanilla bean, and honeyed tropical fruit got you to stop, stare and take another sniff. Rich, lush, opulent, intensely concentrated, velvet-textured apricots, yellow tropical fruits and a gallon of honey that was perfectly braced with a wall of acidity that hung on for well over 60 seconds in the finish. This has entered the start of secondary development and could easily go 100 years. As a guess, the next marker comes in with another 20 yeas of age.

Just a fabulous wine from the moment the wine hit the glass. The explosive nose, with its coconut, butterscotch, creme brulee, candied orange, flowers, vanilla bean, and honeyed tropical fruit got you to stop, stare and take another sniff. Rich, lush, opulent, intensely concentrated, velvet-textured apricots, yellow tropical fruits and a gallon of honey that was perfectly braced with a wall of acidity that hung on for well over 60 seconds in the finish. This has entered the start of secondary development and could easily go 100 years. As a guess, the next marker comes in with another 20 yeas of age.

6,349 Views   Tasted
This keeps getting better and better. I won't be around when this hits full maturity, whenever that is, but I'm digging it right now. With gobs of honey drenched pineapples, apricots and tropical fruit, the wine is dense. But the acidity cuts right through. The spicy character, opulent mouthfeel and incredible length are something to experience, at least twice, because it's that good.

This keeps getting better and better. I won't be around when this hits full maturity, whenever that is, but I'm digging it right now. With gobs of honey drenched pineapples, apricots and tropical fruit, the wine is dense. But the acidity cuts right through. The spicy character, opulent mouthfeel and incredible length are something to experience, at least twice, because it's that good.

5,972 Views   Tasted
Holy Frickin' Moleeo.... Is that how you spell that? Who cares? This is stunning juice! The caramel, butterscotch, Cointreau, cooked apricot, honey, molasses, coffee, vanilla and floral aromas are off the charts. Rich, intense, concentrated, bright and bursting with acidity, the wine is the perfect mix of sweetness, freshness, and purity of fruit. The finish takes on a honeyed, ripe and over ripe pineapple sensation that sticks with you for 60 seconds or longer. This wine is a deal sealer.

Holy Frickin' Moleeo.... Is that how you spell that? Who cares? This is stunning juice! The caramel, butterscotch, Cointreau, cooked apricot, honey, molasses, coffee, vanilla and floral aromas are off the charts. Rich, intense, concentrated, bright and bursting with acidity, the wine is the perfect mix of sweetness, freshness, and purity of fruit. The finish takes on a honeyed, ripe and over ripe pineapple sensation that sticks with you for 60 seconds or longer. This wine is a deal sealer.

6,960 Views   Tasted
Chateau d'Yquem is more than the waves of concentrated, perfectly ripe, honeyed, tropical fruit. It's freshness that goes along with the experience, keeping the wine uplifted and expansive. That combination is impossible to find in other sweet wines. Every sniff, sip and taste was a treat. Still young, this intensely concentrated wine should last 100 years!

Chateau d'Yquem is more than the waves of concentrated, perfectly ripe, honeyed, tropical fruit. It's freshness that goes along with the experience, keeping the wine uplifted and expansive. That combination is impossible to find in other sweet wines. Every sniff, sip and taste was a treat. Still young, this intensely concentrated wine should last 100 years!

6,391 Views   Tasted
With a beautiful, yellow, copper, orange, gold hue, the nose screams with loud enough to taste it around the block, with its white peach, pineapple, caramel, creme brulee, apricot, honey, candied orange peel and tropical fruits. Rich, fat, dense and beyond luscious, the wine marries sweetness with blistering acidity, keeping everything lifted, with just the prefect amount of tension. The finish is pure, sweet, fresh and built to age for longer than most people reading this note. I've tasted this wine a lot over the years and this is the best showing yet for this majestic elixir. If you're young enough to wait, this is only going to get better and better with more time.

With a beautiful, yellow, copper, orange, gold hue, the nose screams with loud enough to taste it around the block, with its white peach, pineapple, caramel, creme brulee, apricot, honey, candied orange peel and tropical fruits. Rich, fat, dense and beyond luscious, the wine marries sweetness with blistering acidity, keeping everything lifted, with just the prefect amount of tension. The finish is pure, sweet, fresh and built to age for longer than most people reading this note. I've tasted this wine a lot over the years and this is the best showing yet for this majestic elixir. If you're young enough to wait, this is only going to get better and better with more time.

6,521 Views   Tasted
With an orange glow in its hue, this rich, fat, sweet, intense, flavorful wine serves up layer after layer of pure, honeyed, tropical sweetness. Drink this now, or seal it in a time capsule for your grandchildren.

With an orange glow in its hue, this rich, fat, sweet, intense, flavorful wine serves up layer after layer of pure, honeyed, tropical sweetness. Drink this now, or seal it in a time capsule for your grandchildren.

6,312 Views   Tasted
Honey, flowers, pineapple, apricot, orange and tropical fruits slathered in honey, along with rich textures and mouthful of perfectly ripe, sweet, ripe, honeyed fruit and fruits. This is drinking great today and is only going to get better over the next several decades. This could be favorite vintage of the famous trio, 1988, 1989 and 1990.

Honey, flowers, pineapple, apricot, orange and tropical fruits slathered in honey, along with rich textures and mouthful of perfectly ripe, sweet, ripe, honeyed fruit and fruits. This is drinking great today and is only going to get better over the next several decades. This could be favorite vintage of the famous trio, 1988, 1989 and 1990.

7,190 Views   Tasted
With a blast of coconut, pineapple, flowers, spice, orange, apricot and honey drenched, tropical fruit, the wine continues adding complexity. The finish couples decadent honeyed fruit with freshness and acidity.. Thick, rich, dense and incredibly lush, this is sweet hedonism at its best.

With a blast of coconut, pineapple, flowers, spice, orange, apricot and honey drenched, tropical fruit, the wine continues adding complexity. The finish couples decadent honeyed fruit with freshness and acidity.. Thick, rich, dense and incredibly lush, this is sweet hedonism at its best.

6,579 Views   Tasted
Endless aromatics of ripe pineapples, nectarines, peaches, flowers, spices, vanilla, coconut and more all drenched and dripping honey. Wave after wave of luxurious fruit flows across your palate. This wine is incredibly concentrated. Very dense and full bodied with ample acidity keeping everything in balance.

Endless aromatics of ripe pineapples, nectarines, peaches, flowers, spices, vanilla, coconut and more all drenched and dripping honey. Wave after wave of luxurious fruit flows across your palate. This wine is incredibly concentrated. Very dense and full bodied with ample acidity keeping everything in balance.

5,050 Views   Tasted
1988
94
A fabulous wine. Lemon wax, honeysuckle, orange rind, vanilla and butterscotch hit your nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, lush, rich, round, fresh, fruity, long, sweet and clean with a honeysuckle tinge to the citrus. Every sniff and sip was a pleasure.

A fabulous wine. Lemon wax, honeysuckle, orange rind, vanilla and butterscotch hit your nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, lush, rich, round, fresh, fruity, long, sweet and clean with a honeysuckle tinge to the citrus. Every sniff and sip was a pleasure.

2,686 Views   Tasted
Notes of lemon, flowers with accents of waxy apricots and oranges. Thick with vanilla and tropical fruit on the palate. Long finish

Notes of lemon, flowers with accents of waxy apricots and oranges. Thick with vanilla and tropical fruit on the palate. Long finish

4,475 Views   Tasted
1986
96
1986 d’Yquem offers the perfect balance of acidity and sweet, ripe, honeyed tropical fruit. Pineapples, crème brulee, apricots, honey, grilled nuts and vanilla with freshness, sweetness and lift.

1986 d’Yquem offers the perfect balance of acidity and sweet, ripe, honeyed tropical fruit. Pineapples, crème brulee, apricots, honey, grilled nuts and vanilla with freshness, sweetness and lift.

12,537 Views   Tasted
Sporting a beautiful hue akin to 24 K Gold! The nose bathed in pineapples, apples, apricots, vanilla, honey and cherry blossoms. Very concentrated, almost dense. The finish was pure silk with an odd chalky sensation. The palate was caressed by a cornucopia of honeyed, tropical fruit. The wine continued improving in the glass. This is too young to drink. Let it rest another 5-10 years before opening.

Sporting a beautiful hue akin to 24 K Gold! The nose bathed in pineapples, apples, apricots, vanilla, honey and cherry blossoms. Very concentrated, almost dense. The finish was pure silk with an odd chalky sensation. The palate was caressed by a cornucopia of honeyed, tropical fruit. The wine continued improving in the glass. This is too young to drink. Let it rest another 5-10 years before opening.

5,998 Views   Tasted
1983
96
The color seemed more developed than previous bottles, with its orange, honey and copper hue. The nose grabs you as soon as the wine hits the glass. Honey coated tropical fruit, pineapple, apricot, vanilla custard and orange marmalade flavors are in full force, culminating with a sweet, spicy, fresh layer of fruits slathered in honey. From a 375, the bottle was popped and poured.

The color seemed more developed than previous bottles, with its orange, honey and copper hue. The nose grabs you as soon as the wine hits the glass. Honey coated tropical fruit, pineapple, apricot, vanilla custard and orange marmalade flavors are in full force, culminating with a sweet, spicy, fresh layer of fruits slathered in honey. From a 375, the bottle was popped and poured.

5,470 Views   Tasted
This is a very good Yquem that has approached maturity quicker than expected. However, even with its beautiful, sweet, apricot, caramel and honeyed pineapple charms, it lacks that certain special something found in the best years of this often stunning wine. For the money, you're better off buying 1986, 1988, 1989 and 1990.

This is a very good Yquem that has approached maturity quicker than expected. However, even with its beautiful, sweet, apricot, caramel and honeyed pineapple charms, it lacks that certain special something found in the best years of this often stunning wine. For the money, you're better off buying 1986, 1988, 1989 and 1990.

5,489 Views   Tasted
Looking slightly older than it should, with its copper, orange hue, the apricot, honey, orange, spice, overripe pineapple and nutty perfume caught your focus with no effort. But this specific bottle seemed a little but shorter than it should be, while lacking the intensity, sweetness and length found in the finish of better bottles. This was a very good Sauternes, but only a nice bottle of 1983 d'Yquem. You know what they say, with age, there are only great bottles, not great wines.

Looking slightly older than it should, with its copper, orange hue, the apricot, honey, orange, spice, overripe pineapple and nutty perfume caught your focus with no effort. But this specific bottle seemed a little but shorter than it should be, while lacking the intensity, sweetness and length found in the finish of better bottles. This was a very good Sauternes, but only a nice bottle of 1983 d'Yquem. You know what they say, with age, there are only great bottles, not great wines.

6,290 Views   Tasted
Deep gold in color, this honeyed, pineapple, peach, apricot and crème brulee scented wine delivers the goods. Intense levels of sweet, ripe, fat, lush, tropical fruit easily glide over your palate. The long, decadent finish is truly luxurious. The perfect way to end a splendid evening.

Deep gold in color, this honeyed, pineapple, peach, apricot and crème brulee scented wine delivers the goods. Intense levels of sweet, ripe, fat, lush, tropical fruit easily glide over your palate. The long, decadent finish is truly luxurious. The perfect way to end a splendid evening.

5,174 Views   Tasted
1982
93
A nice d'Yquem, but short of thrilling, the wine is on the orange, tropical side of the style range with caramel, molasses, and brown sugar nuances that ride along with the candied orange rind, molasses, tangerine and candied orange rind, topped with an array of spices and butterscotch. Drink from 2022-2037.

A nice d'Yquem, but short of thrilling, the wine is on the orange, tropical side of the style range with caramel, molasses, and brown sugar nuances that ride along with the candied orange rind, molasses, tangerine and candied orange rind, topped with an array of spices and butterscotch. Drink from 2022-2037.

3,404 Views   Tasted
A beautiful, dark gold hue is the first thing you notice. The orange marmalade, apricot, honey. creme brulee, pineapple and white peach nose, shows a bit more citrus than tropical fruits normally found in Yquem. The finish is there, but the problem is, it's also gone before you know it. It lacks the lingering quality and freshness of the top vintages. Still, this is a nice wine. It's just not a great Yquem.

A beautiful, dark gold hue is the first thing you notice. The orange marmalade, apricot, honey. creme brulee, pineapple and white peach nose, shows a bit more citrus than tropical fruits normally found in Yquem. The finish is there, but the problem is, it's also gone before you know it. It lacks the lingering quality and freshness of the top vintages. Still, this is a nice wine. It's just not a great Yquem.

9,054 Views   Tasted
Medium bodied, and slightly coarse for Chateau d'Yquem, the wine was focused on the orange and tangerine side of the style range. Perhaps, it's a bit disappointing for Yquem overall, but in the context of the vintage, it's fine, as 1982 was much better for red Bordeaux wine. Drink this sooner than later if you have any.

Medium bodied, and slightly coarse for Chateau d'Yquem, the wine was focused on the orange and tangerine side of the style range. Perhaps, it's a bit disappointing for Yquem overall, but in the context of the vintage, it's fine, as 1982 was much better for red Bordeaux wine. Drink this sooner than later if you have any.

9,374 Views   Tasted
1981
91
Spun gold color, pineapple, marzipan, honey, apples, orange rind, smoke, vanilla and nectarine aromas are easy to find. Medium bodied with light sugary flavors of orange and peach, this medium weight, lighter style of d’Yquem is fully mature and should be drunk up sooner than later.

Spun gold color, pineapple, marzipan, honey, apples, orange rind, smoke, vanilla and nectarine aromas are easy to find. Medium bodied with light sugary flavors of orange and peach, this medium weight, lighter style of d’Yquem is fully mature and should be drunk up sooner than later.

5,628 Views   Tasted
1980
94
When expectations are low, it's always a nice surprise when a wine performs much better than expected. This off vintage of d'Yquem offered an attention grabbing perfume filled with ripe apricots, pineapple, honey, vanilla, nectarines, toffee coated nuts and spiced peaches. Ripe, sweet and concentrated with delicious, honey coated tropical fruit in the rich finish, this is probably one of the best deals for a mature bottle of Chateau d'Yquem in the marketplace today. This was my last bottle. A perfect ending to a great case of Sauternes wine.

When expectations are low, it's always a nice surprise when a wine performs much better than expected. This off vintage of d'Yquem offered an attention grabbing perfume filled with ripe apricots, pineapple, honey, vanilla, nectarines, toffee coated nuts and spiced peaches. Ripe, sweet and concentrated with delicious, honey coated tropical fruit in the rich finish, this is probably one of the best deals for a mature bottle of Chateau d'Yquem in the marketplace today. This was my last bottle. A perfect ending to a great case of Sauternes wine.

6,119 Views   Tasted
1979
91
Lemon, lime, dried pineapple, and a light touch of caramel with a background note of honey create the nose. The wine is bright, and semi-sweet, and finishes with a sweet/tart, lime and green apple note. Drink from 2023-2025.

Lemon, lime, dried pineapple, and a light touch of caramel with a background note of honey create the nose. The wine is bright, and semi-sweet, and finishes with a sweet/tart, lime and green apple note. Drink from 2023-2025.

1,874 Views   Tasted
1979
87
This was botrytis light. Golden honey color, nose of apricots, vanilla and guava. Good mouth feel but lacks the weight of a strong vintage. On the palate, some honeyed orange and pineapple notes. A good , fully mature Yquem but certainly not great.

This was botrytis light. Golden honey color, nose of apricots, vanilla and guava. Good mouth feel but lacks the weight of a strong vintage. On the palate, some honeyed orange and pineapple notes. A good , fully mature Yquem but certainly not great.

4,386 Views   Tasted
1978
92
What a nice surprise to see this bottle at a tasting and the surprise got even better when tasting it. The nose offered white peach, honeysuckle, floral, vanilla and cantaloupe scents. Medium bodied, soft, delicate and charming, the only issue was, perhaps it is a bit too short in the finish. This is a great example of a fully mature, dry Sauternes.

What a nice surprise to see this bottle at a tasting and the surprise got even better when tasting it. The nose offered white peach, honeysuckle, floral, vanilla and cantaloupe scents. Medium bodied, soft, delicate and charming, the only issue was, perhaps it is a bit too short in the finish. This is a great example of a fully mature, dry Sauternes.

3,825 Views   Tasted
1976
96
A gorgeous d'Yquem that is in the perfect place. It is ready to go, and yet, it has decades of life to go allowing you to enjoy its roasted apricots, honey-coated oranges, pineapple, ginger, flowers, and spices. The bite of acidity is the perfect balance for its layers of sweet, ripe, tropical fruits. Drink from 2024-2045.

A gorgeous d'Yquem that is in the perfect place. It is ready to go, and yet, it has decades of life to go allowing you to enjoy its roasted apricots, honey-coated oranges, pineapple, ginger, flowers, and spices. The bite of acidity is the perfect balance for its layers of sweet, ripe, tropical fruits. Drink from 2024-2045.

4,541 Views   Tasted
What a treat! This is the perfect way to end the night. The non-stop layers of candied orange, caramel, creme-brulee, overripe mango, nuts, roasted pineapple, and spicy orange tea all coated with nut honey get your focus. The wine is rich, intense, and sweet, yet racy and vibrant, so everything is lifted and intense. This has entered the start of its prime-time drinking window, where it should remain for at least another 25-35-50 more years with ease. If you want to know what makes mature d'Yquem so special, this is a good place to start.

What a treat! This is the perfect way to end the night. The non-stop layers of candied orange, caramel, creme-brulee, overripe mango, nuts, roasted pineapple, and spicy orange tea all coated with nut honey get your focus. The wine is rich, intense, and sweet, yet racy and vibrant, so everything is lifted and intense. This has entered the start of its prime-time drinking window, where it should remain for at least another 25-35-50 more years with ease. If you want to know what makes mature d'Yquem so special, this is a good place to start.

3,330 Views   Tasted
Taking on more of a dark gold, copper hue, the wine blasts off with scents of caramel, molasses, candied orange, overripe mango, custard, roasted pineapple, spice, macadamia nut and honey. Sweet but never cloying, the racy acidity gives this lift and vibrancy so you savor the decadent, honey-slathered, tropical fruit, roasted nut and creme de caramel finish. This is starting to come into its prime-time drinking window, where it should remain for at least another 25-35 years with ease.

Taking on more of a dark gold, copper hue, the wine blasts off with scents of caramel, molasses, candied orange, overripe mango, custard, roasted pineapple, spice, macadamia nut and honey. Sweet but never cloying, the racy acidity gives this lift and vibrancy so you savor the decadent, honey-slathered, tropical fruit, roasted nut and creme de caramel finish. This is starting to come into its prime-time drinking window, where it should remain for at least another 25-35 years with ease.

3,718 Views   Tasted
The perfume rocked! Buttered honey, burnt caramel, apricot, candied tangerine, crushed stone and orange peel never left your glass. Concentrated, lively, long, elegant and fresh, there was ample sweetness with loads of complexity, but the sensation of botrytis was subdued. This is drinking in a really good place today. It might get better, but if you have a few bottles, open one and check it out.

The perfume rocked! Buttered honey, burnt caramel, apricot, candied tangerine, crushed stone and orange peel never left your glass. Concentrated, lively, long, elegant and fresh, there was ample sweetness with loads of complexity, but the sensation of botrytis was subdued. This is drinking in a really good place today. It might get better, but if you have a few bottles, open one and check it out.

3,605 Views   Tasted
This is a very good d'Yquem that is showing a wealth of secondary characteristics with its caramel, butterscotch, roasted pineapple, apricot, honey and candied orange rind character. However, the wine is slightly better on the nose, than on the luscious, sweet, tropical fruit and honey coated palate. At the end of the day, while good, it lacks the energy, freshness and complexity that is often found in the 1975.

This is a very good d'Yquem that is showing a wealth of secondary characteristics with its caramel, butterscotch, roasted pineapple, apricot, honey and candied orange rind character. However, the wine is slightly better on the nose, than on the luscious, sweet, tropical fruit and honey coated palate. At the end of the day, while good, it lacks the energy, freshness and complexity that is often found in the 1975.

5,134 Views   Tasted
Decadence in a glass. Multiple layers of rich, honeyed, unctuous tropical fruit, vanilla and coconut roar from the pour. The palate enjoys a sexy bath of plush sweetness in this special Bordeaux.

Decadence in a glass. Multiple layers of rich, honeyed, unctuous tropical fruit, vanilla and coconut roar from the pour. The palate enjoys a sexy bath of plush sweetness in this special Bordeaux.

9,210 Views   Tasted
1975
100
Deep gold in color, the attention seeking nose pops with roasted pineapple, ginger, butter, butterscotch, white pepper, flowers, cashews, caramel, vanilla, apricots, honey and cinnamon sugar. Intense, concentrated, weighty and yet fresh, vibrant and spicy, the mid-palate and finish resonates with seared pineapple, white pepper, orange, mango and a beguiling hint of cocoa powder that shines in the end of the finish. Drink from 2023-2075.

Deep gold in color, the attention seeking nose pops with roasted pineapple, ginger, butter, butterscotch, white pepper, flowers, cashews, caramel, vanilla, apricots, honey and cinnamon sugar. Intense, concentrated, weighty and yet fresh, vibrant and spicy, the mid-palate and finish resonates with seared pineapple, white pepper, orange, mango and a beguiling hint of cocoa powder that shines in the end of the finish. Drink from 2023-2075.

3,829 Views   Tasted
Taking on a copper, orange hue, the incredible perfume with all its flowers, almonds, creme brulee, candied orange rind, apricot, overripe pineapple molasses and spice all coated with honey is a serious turn on. But it is on the palate, with its incredible match of concentration, sweetness, and blazing acidity that helps it all make sense. This is so good, it could run out of points on the best bottles, especially with more time.

Taking on a copper, orange hue, the incredible perfume with all its flowers, almonds, creme brulee, candied orange rind, apricot, overripe pineapple molasses and spice all coated with honey is a serious turn on. But it is on the palate, with its incredible match of concentration, sweetness, and blazing acidity that helps it all make sense. This is so good, it could run out of points on the best bottles, especially with more time.

4,361 Views   Tasted
It has been a few years since I last tasted this wine, and baby, "I've missed you!" With blazing, racy acidity, the wine roars with its waves of ripe, sweet, juicy, fresh, pure, honeyed apricot, orange peel, pineapple, creme brulee, spice, flowers and vanilla. The wine is rich and sweet, but never cloying or out of balance. It has length, purity and complexity and its only reached its teen years. I am sure future generations of wine lovers will be loving this wine in 2075!

It has been a few years since I last tasted this wine, and baby, "I've missed you!" With blazing, racy acidity, the wine roars with its waves of ripe, sweet, juicy, fresh, pure, honeyed apricot, orange peel, pineapple, creme brulee, spice, flowers and vanilla. The wine is rich and sweet, but never cloying or out of balance. It has length, purity and complexity and its only reached its teen years. I am sure future generations of wine lovers will be loving this wine in 2075!

4,619 Views   Tasted
I cannot think of many wines that have displayed this level of consistency. This stunning wine has been perfect on more occasions than I can count. After a night of great wines, time and time again this has been scored as the wine of the night on numerous occasions. With its flashy display of decadent tropical fruits slathered in honey, vanilla, flowers, spice and candied citrus peel, it’s easy to see why. On the palate, the more than :60 finish has the perfect balance of acidity, giving it lift and freshness coupled with dense, ripe, over ripe and extremely ripe tropical fruits. This is the wine to buy, if you can afford it.

I cannot think of many wines that have displayed this level of consistency. This stunning wine has been perfect on more occasions than I can count. After a night of great wines, time and time again this has been scored as the wine of the night on numerous occasions. With its flashy display of decadent tropical fruits slathered in honey, vanilla, flowers, spice and candied citrus peel, it’s easy to see why. On the palate, the more than :60 finish has the perfect balance of acidity, giving it lift and freshness coupled with dense, ripe, over ripe and extremely ripe tropical fruits. This is the wine to buy, if you can afford it.

9,563 Views   Tasted
Fathers day does not come around enough. As Chateau d'Yquem is my dad's favorite wine, I popped a 1975! With a beautiful golden hue, pineapple upside down cake, caramel, honeysuckle, cinnamon, coffee, orange rind, apricot, smoke, creme brulee and smoke create the complex aromatics. Liquid silk and velvet drenched in honey textures in the mouth lead to a long, fresh, bright, pineapple, apricot, vanilla, cocoa, orangesicle and spice filled finish. While this was a great bottle of 1975 d'Yquem, I've had fresher examples showing more yellow fruit, sweetness and less creme brulee.

Fathers day does not come around enough. As Chateau d'Yquem is my dad's favorite wine, I popped a 1975! With a beautiful golden hue, pineapple upside down cake, caramel, honeysuckle, cinnamon, coffee, orange rind, apricot, smoke, creme brulee and smoke create the complex aromatics. Liquid silk and velvet drenched in honey textures in the mouth lead to a long, fresh, bright, pineapple, apricot, vanilla, cocoa, orangesicle and spice filled finish. While this was a great bottle of 1975 d'Yquem, I've had fresher examples showing more yellow fruit, sweetness and less creme brulee.

10,001 Views   Tasted
1975 Chateau d’Yquem is a contender for the most consistent 100 Pt wine I have ever tasted. Bottle after bottle has been stunning and this 5 Yquem was no exception. With a copper, orange color, honey covered apricots, floral aromas, pineapples, creme brulee, coconut and tropical aromas explode in front of your nose. Viscous, opulent, packed and stacked with endless waves of deep, juicy, spicy, honey drenched fruit, your mouth, teeth and gums are coated with pleasure .Everything is on balance. The perfect amount of acidity keeps the wine, fresh and lively. The seamless finish lasts well over a minute. If you have the money and want to experience Yquem at its best, Kenny Loggins had it right, "This is it!"

1975 Chateau d’Yquem is a contender for the most consistent 100 Pt wine I have ever tasted. Bottle after bottle has been stunning and this 5 Yquem was no exception. With a copper, orange color, honey covered apricots, floral aromas, pineapples, creme brulee, coconut and tropical aromas explode in front of your nose. Viscous, opulent, packed and stacked with endless waves of deep, juicy, spicy, honey drenched fruit, your mouth, teeth and gums are coated with pleasure .Everything is on balance. The perfect amount of acidity keeps the wine, fresh and lively. The seamless finish lasts well over a minute. If you have the money and want to experience Yquem at its best, Kenny Loggins had it right, "This is it!"

16,933 Views   Tasted
With the color of pure, honey, the aromatics can seemingly be experienced from across the room! Apricots, oranges, flowers, roasted pineapples, caramel, grilled nuts all drenched in Acacia honey. Thick, concentrated, rich, lush and opulent fruit coats your mouth, teeth and gums. But its the perfect balance that becomes evident with the lift of acidity that makes this one of the best dessert wines ever produced. The long, honey coated, tropical fruit filled, seamless finish lasts over 60 seconds! This stunning wine is flawless. Perhaps the 2001 will be better. And in 25 years, when that wine begins to enter maturity, we'll find out, But for today, I cannot think of a vintage of Chateau d'Yquem that offers better drinking.

With the color of pure, honey, the aromatics can seemingly be experienced from across the room! Apricots, oranges, flowers, roasted pineapples, caramel, grilled nuts all drenched in Acacia honey. Thick, concentrated, rich, lush and opulent fruit coats your mouth, teeth and gums. But its the perfect balance that becomes evident with the lift of acidity that makes this one of the best dessert wines ever produced. The long, honey coated, tropical fruit filled, seamless finish lasts over 60 seconds! This stunning wine is flawless. Perhaps the 2001 will be better. And in 25 years, when that wine begins to enter maturity, we'll find out, But for today, I cannot think of a vintage of Chateau d'Yquem that offers better drinking.

17,325 Views   Tasted
This is the real deal. Incredible levels of sweet, ripe, decadent, complex, rich, honeyed fruit with ample acidity to give it lift. This wine offers intense purity, ripeness and sweetness.

This is the real deal. Incredible levels of sweet, ripe, decadent, complex, rich, honeyed fruit with ample acidity to give it lift. This wine offers intense purity, ripeness and sweetness.

15,354 Views   Tasted
1971
95
Probably close to fully mature, the butterscotch, caramel, apricot, orange, honey, custard and pineapple bouquet is more than enticing. Great concentration of flavor, and a sweet, vibrant, honeyed, brown sugar, candied orange rind, honeyed tropical fruit finish that really lingers, seals the deal.

Probably close to fully mature, the butterscotch, caramel, apricot, orange, honey, custard and pineapple bouquet is more than enticing. Great concentration of flavor, and a sweet, vibrant, honeyed, brown sugar, candied orange rind, honeyed tropical fruit finish that really lingers, seals the deal.

3,575 Views   Tasted
1970
92
Orange in color and in fruit, with accents of caramel, butterscotch, grilled nuts, apricots, honey and candied citrus, the wine has freshness and energy, but it lacks the levels of depth and sugar found in the best vintages. This is clearly on the advanced, secondary side of life.

Orange in color and in fruit, with accents of caramel, butterscotch, grilled nuts, apricots, honey and candied citrus, the wine has freshness and energy, but it lacks the levels of depth and sugar found in the best vintages. This is clearly on the advanced, secondary side of life.

6,413 Views   Tasted
From the first whiff, this copper colored wine makes it easy to find honey, orange, cinnamon, vanilla, toffee, pineapple, nectarine and grilled nut aromas. The wine is full bodied and concentrated, but in the mouth there is a slightly dull quality to the fruit. There is not enough acidity or sweetness to make this wine exciting. The wine is chunky and finishes with honeyed, orange and mango flavors.

From the first whiff, this copper colored wine makes it easy to find honey, orange, cinnamon, vanilla, toffee, pineapple, nectarine and grilled nut aromas. The wine is full bodied and concentrated, but in the mouth there is a slightly dull quality to the fruit. There is not enough acidity or sweetness to make this wine exciting. The wine is chunky and finishes with honeyed, orange and mango flavors.

5,714 Views   Tasted
The first thing you notice is the beautiful, orange, honey colored hue staring at you from the glass. The perfume, with its intoxicating scents of orange blossoms, honey, caramel and grilled pineapples is a treat. On the palate, the wine is balanced with layers of sweet, honeyed tropical fruit. This could use more concentration. However, any Yquem is always a welcome treat, especially mature bottles.

The first thing you notice is the beautiful, orange, honey colored hue staring at you from the glass. The perfume, with its intoxicating scents of orange blossoms, honey, caramel and grilled pineapples is a treat. On the palate, the wine is balanced with layers of sweet, honeyed tropical fruit. This could use more concentration. However, any Yquem is always a welcome treat, especially mature bottles.

5,712 Views   Tasted
1967
99
This bottle rocked it! The gold, mahogany hue brought you to the perfume, packed with marshmallows, orange rind, creme brulee, caramel, butterscotch, spice, brown butter, popcorn, roasted cashews, and pineapple coated with brown sugar. The wine is concentrated, lush, silky, sweet, vibrant, fresh, and packed with oranges, tangerines, mango, pineapple, spice, brown sugar, and almonds. The mid-palate, and finish provided a memorable experience that shows why Chateau d'Yquem is in a league all of its own. This bottle was particularly-strong, much better than any previous example I remember tasting. This is a stellar example of a mature d'Yquem! Drink from 2023-2067.

This bottle rocked it! The gold, mahogany hue brought you to the perfume, packed with marshmallows, orange rind, creme brulee, caramel, butterscotch, spice, brown butter, popcorn, roasted cashews, and pineapple coated with brown sugar. The wine is concentrated, lush, silky, sweet, vibrant, fresh, and packed with oranges, tangerines, mango, pineapple, spice, brown sugar, and almonds. The mid-palate, and finish provided a memorable experience that shows why Chateau d'Yquem is in a league all of its own. This bottle was particularly-strong, much better than any previous example I remember tasting. This is a stellar example of a mature d'Yquem! Drink from 2023-2067.

3,948 Views   Tasted
The gorgeous copper, golden, amber hue is a sight to see. Aromas of marshmallow, caramel, brown butter, creme brûlée, almonds, spice, and roasted apricots are off the hook. The wine is rich, silky, concentrated and with a serious depth of flavor, opulent and lush, with silky tannins that deliver waves of sweet, caramel coated fruits with the balance of racy acidity makes this a compelling tasting experience. Drink now, or over the next 30-40 or 50 years!

The gorgeous copper, golden, amber hue is a sight to see. Aromas of marshmallow, caramel, brown butter, creme brûlée, almonds, spice, and roasted apricots are off the hook. The wine is rich, silky, concentrated and with a serious depth of flavor, opulent and lush, with silky tannins that deliver waves of sweet, caramel coated fruits with the balance of racy acidity makes this a compelling tasting experience. Drink now, or over the next 30-40 or 50 years!

3,763 Views   Tasted
This was majestic. The gorgeous, orange, copper mahogany color looked great in your glass. Butterscotch, creme de caramel, orange zest, cinnamon, caramelized pineapple, apricot and cashew nuts that create the perfume are showstopping! At almost 54 years of age, the wine has filled out, fleshed out and gained in richness, delicacy and decadence without losing its vibrant lift. The opulence in the sweet, honey, caramel, spice box and honey-coated frut and nuts lingers on your palate. In their youth, other sweet wines might compete with d'Yquem. But, at maturity, there is nothing else like it.

This was majestic. The gorgeous, orange, copper mahogany color looked great in your glass. Butterscotch, creme de caramel, orange zest, cinnamon, caramelized pineapple, apricot and cashew nuts that create the perfume are showstopping! At almost 54 years of age, the wine has filled out, fleshed out and gained in richness, delicacy and decadence without losing its vibrant lift. The opulence in the sweet, honey, caramel, spice box and honey-coated frut and nuts lingers on your palate. In their youth, other sweet wines might compete with d'Yquem. But, at maturity, there is nothing else like it.

4,383 Views   Tasted
The nose kills with its intoxicating blend of honeyed apricot, marshmallow, creme de caramel, orange, butterscotch, stone, smoke candied orange, vanilla, cocoa and floral notes. Rich and full on the palate, everything here is perfectly balanced between sweet, orange and yellow honeyed fruits and a jolt of acidity. At 52 years of age, this is just now entering its stride and is only going to get better from here!

The nose kills with its intoxicating blend of honeyed apricot, marshmallow, creme de caramel, orange, butterscotch, stone, smoke candied orange, vanilla, cocoa and floral notes. Rich and full on the palate, everything here is perfectly balanced between sweet, orange and yellow honeyed fruits and a jolt of acidity. At 52 years of age, this is just now entering its stride and is only going to get better from here!

4,323 Views   Tasted
A dream wine shared with a friend for his 50th birthday, this did not disappoint. Caramel, butterscotch, candied orange rind, marzipan, overripe pineapple, apricot and tangerine all slathered in honey with some marzipan to boot. Lusciously textured, yet equally fresh and diabolically sweet, the reason Yquem earns its accolades and high price becomes apparent as the wine hits 50 years of age in the best vintages.

A dream wine shared with a friend for his 50th birthday, this did not disappoint. Caramel, butterscotch, candied orange rind, marzipan, overripe pineapple, apricot and tangerine all slathered in honey with some marzipan to boot. Lusciously textured, yet equally fresh and diabolically sweet, the reason Yquem earns its accolades and high price becomes apparent as the wine hits 50 years of age in the best vintages.

4,444 Views   Tasted
If creme caramel, butterscotch, sweet, ripe, tropical fruits, orange, flowers, honey, roasted chestnuts and silky, plush, opulent textures is your thing, this wine is for you. This wine was for me and I loved it! What a stunning beauty. Happy I was able to share it with my father for our end of the year dinner. There was just a bit of wine left in the bottle overnight and it was still going strong. At days before its 50th birthday, this is really delivering the goods. I know it's popular to knock Yquem for its price when measured against its peers. And there is something to that, especially when the wine is young. But when Yquem hits 50, or even older, this is when the magic really happens and the other wines are left behind.

If creme caramel, butterscotch, sweet, ripe, tropical fruits, orange, flowers, honey, roasted chestnuts and silky, plush, opulent textures is your thing, this wine is for you. This wine was for me and I loved it! What a stunning beauty. Happy I was able to share it with my father for our end of the year dinner. There was just a bit of wine left in the bottle overnight and it was still going strong. At days before its 50th birthday, this is really delivering the goods. I know it's popular to knock Yquem for its price when measured against its peers. And there is something to that, especially when the wine is young. But when Yquem hits 50, or even older, this is when the magic really happens and the other wines are left behind.

4,017 Views   Tasted
It's always sad when great wines don't deliver, especially when the exalted bottle is pricey as well. I've had great bottles of 1967 d'Yquem before, but not this time. The color was that beautiful, orange, amber, copper hue. The nose, with its butterscotch, creme brulee, orange and sweet aromas seemed more subdued than exuberant. On the palate is where this bottle fell short. While there was good concentration of flavor, this bottle lacked the length and vigor the wine can produce. It's important to always keep in mind with old bottles, each is a unique tasting experience, some are going to be better, while others will be worse the for wear. The no great wines, only great bottles comment works perfectly here.

It's always sad when great wines don't deliver, especially when the exalted bottle is pricey as well. I've had great bottles of 1967 d'Yquem before, but not this time. The color was that beautiful, orange, amber, copper hue. The nose, with its butterscotch, creme brulee, orange and sweet aromas seemed more subdued than exuberant. On the palate is where this bottle fell short. While there was good concentration of flavor, this bottle lacked the length and vigor the wine can produce. It's important to always keep in mind with old bottles, each is a unique tasting experience, some are going to be better, while others will be worse the for wear. The no great wines, only great bottles comment works perfectly here.

6,178 Views   Tasted
This was from the chateau so my experience could be better than most bottles in the marketplace. Copper, orange and caramel in color, the wine offers a complex array of carmelized fruits, vanilla, grilled nuts, apricot, pineapple, lemon curd and candied orange rind. Fresh, rich, soft and sweet, this is very good now and I imagine perfectly stored bottles will get even better.

This was from the chateau so my experience could be better than most bottles in the marketplace. Copper, orange and caramel in color, the wine offers a complex array of carmelized fruits, vanilla, grilled nuts, apricot, pineapple, lemon curd and candied orange rind. Fresh, rich, soft and sweet, this is very good now and I imagine perfectly stored bottles will get even better.

5,310 Views   Tasted
Caramel in color, with an intoxicating nose of smoke, caramel, roasted pineapple, spice, orange rind and burnt sugar. While rich, some of the intense sweetness seems to have faded. The wine is more focused on the caramel and crème brulee, than decadent honeyed fruits. That is not to say this was not wonderful, but it’s not in the same league as the perfect 1975 Chateau d’Yquem. 95

Caramel in color, with an intoxicating nose of smoke, caramel, roasted pineapple, spice, orange rind and burnt sugar. While rich, some of the intense sweetness seems to have faded. The wine is more focused on the caramel and crème brulee, than decadent honeyed fruits. That is not to say this was not wonderful, but it’s not in the same league as the perfect 1975 Chateau d’Yquem. 95

5,922 Views   Tasted
Expresses a stunning cornucopia of caramel, pineapple, apricots, smoke, molasses, honey, coconut, toast and brown sugar nose, this Bordeaux was intoxicating. This was made better by the rich, decadent, seemingly endless, hedonistic mouth feel. The long finish left memories of a honey drenched, tropical fruit filled creme brulee. Paired with a sweet corn risotto and foie gras, this was off the charts! As a comparison, the 67 was better than a recent bottle of 59 D'Yquem, but not as good as the sublime 75 D'Yquem which remains my favorite vintage

Expresses a stunning cornucopia of caramel, pineapple, apricots, smoke, molasses, honey, coconut, toast and brown sugar nose, this Bordeaux was intoxicating. This was made better by the rich, decadent, seemingly endless, hedonistic mouth feel. The long finish left memories of a honey drenched, tropical fruit filled creme brulee. Paired with a sweet corn risotto and foie gras, this was off the charts! As a comparison, the 67 was better than a recent bottle of 59 D'Yquem, but not as good as the sublime 75 D'Yquem which remains my favorite vintage

12,548 Views   Tasted
1966
95
Truly, it was a treat to taste the oldest bottle I've ever seen of Ygrec. On the nose, it reminds of a lighter, lesser vintage of Yquem, without a lot of botrytis. Apricot, orange, honeysuckle, tangerine and spicy, orange tea defines the nuances. Not quite sweet, with a jolt of acidity, the wine has heft, sweet, orange honey and hints of orange tropical fruit on the palate. I wish I had more of this in my cellar.

Truly, it was a treat to taste the oldest bottle I've ever seen of Ygrec. On the nose, it reminds of a lighter, lesser vintage of Yquem, without a lot of botrytis. Apricot, orange, honeysuckle, tangerine and spicy, orange tea defines the nuances. Not quite sweet, with a jolt of acidity, the wine has heft, sweet, orange honey and hints of orange tropical fruit on the palate. I wish I had more of this in my cellar.

1,860 Views   Tasted
1966
83
More acid than fruit, more fragrance than flavor, this vintage of Chateau d'Yquem is well past its prime. Unless you're seeking a birth year Sauternes to commemorate a birthday or special occasion, at the prices being asked for this vintage, avoid buying this wine.

More acid than fruit, more fragrance than flavor, this vintage of Chateau d'Yquem is well past its prime. Unless you're seeking a birth year Sauternes to commemorate a birthday or special occasion, at the prices being asked for this vintage, avoid buying this wine.

5,696 Views   Tasted
1962
96
Exactly like what you imagine a dry d'Yquem would smell like with its honey, dried apricot, caramel, butterscotch, dried pineapple, and spice-filled perfume. Crisp, semi-sweet, and salty on the palate, the finish with its mild, honey accent that rides along with its yellow and orange fruits seal the deal. Drink from 2023-2027.

Exactly like what you imagine a dry d'Yquem would smell like with its honey, dried apricot, caramel, butterscotch, dried pineapple, and spice-filled perfume. Crisp, semi-sweet, and salty on the palate, the finish with its mild, honey accent that rides along with its yellow and orange fruits seal the deal. Drink from 2023-2027.

1,531 Views   Tasted
1962
95
Spicy apricots, orange rind, candied mandarins, coconut, vanilla bean, quince, marmalade, spice, and caramel scents crowded into the nose. The palate was loaded with burnt and roasted yellow and orange fruits, freshness, crisp, sweet, roasted pineapples, mango, honey, toffee, butterscotch and candied oranges. Long, vivacious, sweet, but not overly so, this is a beautiful, mature d'Yquem. Drink from 2023-2033.

Spicy apricots, orange rind, candied mandarins, coconut, vanilla bean, quince, marmalade, spice, and caramel scents crowded into the nose. The palate was loaded with burnt and roasted yellow and orange fruits, freshness, crisp, sweet, roasted pineapples, mango, honey, toffee, butterscotch and candied oranges. Long, vivacious, sweet, but not overly so, this is a beautiful, mature d'Yquem. Drink from 2023-2033.

3,138 Views   Tasted
With a beautiful, copper, orange and caramel hue, the apricot, honey, creme brulee, marmalade, caramel and butterscotch aromatics grabbed you. Silky, with perhaps a bit more freshness than sweetness in the mouth, the finish is packed with candied orange, pineapple, creme caramel and candied citrus rind. The wine remained at the same level of quality for hours in the glass.

With a beautiful, copper, orange and caramel hue, the apricot, honey, creme brulee, marmalade, caramel and butterscotch aromatics grabbed you. Silky, with perhaps a bit more freshness than sweetness in the mouth, the finish is packed with candied orange, pineapple, creme caramel and candied citrus rind. The wine remained at the same level of quality for hours in the glass.

7,494 Views   Tasted
Molasses, with copper accents in color, with a nose of butterscotch, caramel, apricot, orange, creme brulee and roasted nuts, you know you're in for a treat. The wine is silky, young, spicy, sweet, luscious and delicious. The finish really leaves an impression that you do not want to lose. The wine makes you keep your nose in the glass long after the last sip has been tasted. Yes, Chateau Yquem is expensive, especially when compared to every other Sauternes. Perhaps in its youth, it's hard to know why. But pop a cork on any other 50 year old bottle of sweet, white Bordeaux next to an Yquem and the lights will go off. You'll get it!

Molasses, with copper accents in color, with a nose of butterscotch, caramel, apricot, orange, creme brulee and roasted nuts, you know you're in for a treat. The wine is silky, young, spicy, sweet, luscious and delicious. The finish really leaves an impression that you do not want to lose. The wine makes you keep your nose in the glass long after the last sip has been tasted. Yes, Chateau Yquem is expensive, especially when compared to every other Sauternes. Perhaps in its youth, it's hard to know why. But pop a cork on any other 50 year old bottle of sweet, white Bordeaux next to an Yquem and the lights will go off. You'll get it!

2,822 Views   Tasted
Butterscotch, spice, honey, tropical fruit and crème brulee. Rich, sweet, opulent and sensuous, the wine feels great as it flows over your palate with sweet caramel and spicy, tropical fruits. I loved this wine!

Butterscotch, spice, honey, tropical fruit and crème brulee. Rich, sweet, opulent and sensuous, the wine feels great as it flows over your palate with sweet caramel and spicy, tropical fruits. I loved this wine!

3,536 Views   Tasted
1961
92
In a vintage known to be much better for red wine, than white, there was plenty to like about this beauty. Still fresh, and focused on the orange and honeyed citrus side of the fruit range, the fruit seemed like it was poached in butter, with honey and roasted nuts slathered on top, to add more character.

In a vintage known to be much better for red wine, than white, there was plenty to like about this beauty. Still fresh, and focused on the orange and honeyed citrus side of the fruit range, the fruit seemed like it was poached in butter, with honey and roasted nuts slathered on top, to add more character.

3,673 Views   Tasted
With a beautiful color, slightly discernible scents of flowers, spice, pineapple and crème brulee popped up. Too much acidity and not enough fruit after 50 years made this a wine to open if you have it, but pass on buying it if you don't. Stick to 1961 Red Bordeaux.

With a beautiful color, slightly discernible scents of flowers, spice, pineapple and crème brulee popped up. Too much acidity and not enough fruit after 50 years made this a wine to open if you have it, but pass on buying it if you don't. Stick to 1961 Red Bordeaux.

7,299 Views   Tasted
1959
98
When Chateau d'Yquem is young, the wine has competition from some of the other top producers in the appellation. But as the wine ages, that is when the rubber hits the road, as Yquem clearly pulls ahead of the competition. Here you find a deep golden, mahogany hue with an ethereal perfume consisting of roasted apricots, burnt caramel, butterscotch, marmalade, overripe pineapple, and nuts, topped with honey. There is blistering acidity that provides lift to the layers of honeyed, caramel topped yellow and orange spiced fruits on the palate. The seamless finish starts off strong, picks up steam, and keeps on going. There is no reason that well-stored bottles cannot age another 30-40 years and maybe more!

When Chateau d'Yquem is young, the wine has competition from some of the other top producers in the appellation. But as the wine ages, that is when the rubber hits the road, as Yquem clearly pulls ahead of the competition. Here you find a deep golden, mahogany hue with an ethereal perfume consisting of roasted apricots, burnt caramel, butterscotch, marmalade, overripe pineapple, and nuts, topped with honey. There is blistering acidity that provides lift to the layers of honeyed, caramel topped yellow and orange spiced fruits on the palate. The seamless finish starts off strong, picks up steam, and keeps on going. There is no reason that well-stored bottles cannot age another 30-40 years and maybe more!

5,052 Views   Tasted
This is the finest example of the 59 I have ever tasted. Deep gold in color, the wine explodes with caramel, burnt sugar, toffee, butterscotch, candied orange rind, pineapple and lemon curd nuances. Sweet and fresh, with silky textures and racy acidity, the yellow fruit, honey and caramel finish was endless. If you are young, and you have bottles of the better vintages for d'Yquem, try hanging on to a few for when you and the wine have aged into maturity. It will be worth the extreme wait.

This is the finest example of the 59 I have ever tasted. Deep gold in color, the wine explodes with caramel, burnt sugar, toffee, butterscotch, candied orange rind, pineapple and lemon curd nuances. Sweet and fresh, with silky textures and racy acidity, the yellow fruit, honey and caramel finish was endless. If you are young, and you have bottles of the better vintages for d'Yquem, try hanging on to a few for when you and the wine have aged into maturity. It will be worth the extreme wait.

5,854 Views   Tasted
Not the best bottle I've ever tasted of this often stunning wine. With a color and fill that were too advanced for its age, this amber colored wine offered more secondary notes of caramel, butterscotch, buttered popcorn, cooked apricot, candied orange and brioche than luscious honeyed fruit. The sweetness had declined somewhat and there was more noticeable acidity than fruits and honey. The hands of age were strong on this bottle.

Not the best bottle I've ever tasted of this often stunning wine. With a color and fill that were too advanced for its age, this amber colored wine offered more secondary notes of caramel, butterscotch, buttered popcorn, cooked apricot, candied orange and brioche than luscious honeyed fruit. The sweetness had declined somewhat and there was more noticeable acidity than fruits and honey. The hands of age were strong on this bottle.

4,621 Views   Tasted
Deep caramel in color, with a nose of apricot, orange marmalade, toffee, vanilla, bees wax, brown sugar and honey, the wine has exchanged its previous, vibrant, sweet, honeyed yellow fruits for a creme brulee, lemon peel and brown sugar character. Based on this bottle, I'd drink this sooner than later.

Deep caramel in color, with a nose of apricot, orange marmalade, toffee, vanilla, bees wax, brown sugar and honey, the wine has exchanged its previous, vibrant, sweet, honeyed yellow fruits for a creme brulee, lemon peel and brown sugar character. Based on this bottle, I'd drink this sooner than later.

5,644 Views   Tasted
1955
97
Darker in color than I would have expected, it was on the deep, dark, amber side of caramel, or mahogany, don't let the color scare you off. The aromatics sizzled with coffee, caramel, butterscotch, nuts buttered tropical fruit and honey. Thick, rich and fat, yes, the wine could have used a bit more freshness, but the finish was long, intense, sweet and packed with flavor. I know d'Yquem is shockingly expensive, but when Yquem just starts to get going, at perhaps 40-50-60 years of age, the other Sauternes are usually left in the dust.

Darker in color than I would have expected, it was on the deep, dark, amber side of caramel, or mahogany, don't let the color scare you off. The aromatics sizzled with coffee, caramel, butterscotch, nuts buttered tropical fruit and honey. Thick, rich and fat, yes, the wine could have used a bit more freshness, but the finish was long, intense, sweet and packed with flavor. I know d'Yquem is shockingly expensive, but when Yquem just starts to get going, at perhaps 40-50-60 years of age, the other Sauternes are usually left in the dust.

3,894 Views   Tasted
1954
89
Not a lot of fruit, instead the wine delivers its caramel, molasses, burnt orange and dried lemon rind core in the nose, and on the palate, which is quite bright, and crisp. Still, it is a vintage I never thought I would see, so it was nice to come across it at the property. Drink from 2024-2029.

Not a lot of fruit, instead the wine delivers its caramel, molasses, burnt orange and dried lemon rind core in the nose, and on the palate, which is quite bright, and crisp. Still, it is a vintage I never thought I would see, so it was nice to come across it at the property. Drink from 2024-2029.

1,051 Views   Tasted
1949
94
Honey, burnt orange sugar, apricots, pineapples, vanilla and crème brulee soar from the glass. But, this wine is not produced in the style of modern Yquems. This does not have the nearly the same level of sweetness or viscosity found in the best vintages of the 80’s and 90’s. Perfectly balanced with the right amount of acidity to give it lift.

Honey, burnt orange sugar, apricots, pineapples, vanilla and crème brulee soar from the glass. But, this wine is not produced in the style of modern Yquems. This does not have the nearly the same level of sweetness or viscosity found in the best vintages of the 80’s and 90’s. Perfectly balanced with the right amount of acidity to give it lift.

9,427 Views   Tasted
1948
94
On the bright, orange, tangerine, apricot, burnt sugar, butter, floral and butterscotch side, the wine is very fresh, bright and not overly sweet. The candied orange component stands out, as does the bright, flower, spice, burnt sugar, orange tropical fruit and honey finish.

On the bright, orange, tangerine, apricot, burnt sugar, butter, floral and butterscotch side, the wine is very fresh, bright and not overly sweet. The candied orange component stands out, as does the bright, flower, spice, burnt sugar, orange tropical fruit and honey finish.

3,103 Views   Tasted
1947
97
My first, and sadly, probably my last time tasting this beautiful, copper/amber colored, historical gem, the wine opened with creme brulee, marshmallow, caramel, butterscotch, candied orange, and mango, completed by Indian spices in the perfume. The patina of age was there on the palate, providing an exotic, soft, silky, sweet mouthful of caramel-coated orange, tangerine, and candied mango with an accent of spice and cocoa. Tasting younger than its almost 80 years of age, but without the same raciness and concentration found in years with less heat, like 1945, it was still a thrill and a treat to taste. Drink from 2023-2037.

My first, and sadly, probably my last time tasting this beautiful, copper/amber colored, historical gem, the wine opened with creme brulee, marshmallow, caramel, butterscotch, candied orange, and mango, completed by Indian spices in the perfume. The patina of age was there on the palate, providing an exotic, soft, silky, sweet mouthful of caramel-coated orange, tangerine, and candied mango with an accent of spice and cocoa. Tasting younger than its almost 80 years of age, but without the same raciness and concentration found in years with less heat, like 1945, it was still a thrill and a treat to taste. Drink from 2023-2037.

6,857 Views   Tasted
1945
100
In color, this almost 70 year old wine sported copper with orange hues. With time, about 30 minutes, candied orange, caramel, burnt sugar, grilled pineapple, honey and nut aromas rose from the glass to create the perfume. Soft, lush and sweet, the wine leaves a rich trail of caramel corn, brioche, roasted orange, spice, butterscotch, grilled pineapple and vanilla sensations on your palate. It does not have the same level of concentration, complexity or exotic texture found in the legendary 1937, but it's close. This was my first time with this vintage. I hope it’s not going to be my last.

In color, this almost 70 year old wine sported copper with orange hues. With time, about 30 minutes, candied orange, caramel, burnt sugar, grilled pineapple, honey and nut aromas rose from the glass to create the perfume. Soft, lush and sweet, the wine leaves a rich trail of caramel corn, brioche, roasted orange, spice, butterscotch, grilled pineapple and vanilla sensations on your palate. It does not have the same level of concentration, complexity or exotic texture found in the legendary 1937, but it's close. This was my first time with this vintage. I hope it’s not going to be my last.

10,365 Views   Tasted
1944
85
My second experience with a rare, war years bottle was about the same as the first. The wine is on the bright, acidic side, focusing on its candied citrus, caramel, and molasses character with a tint of lemon curd. Still, drinking this allows you to consider the conditions the wine was produced in as World War 2 was raging and France was occupied. This is what bottled history is all about. Drink from 2024-2024.

My second experience with a rare, war years bottle was about the same as the first. The wine is on the bright, acidic side, focusing on its candied citrus, caramel, and molasses character with a tint of lemon curd. Still, drinking this allows you to consider the conditions the wine was produced in as World War 2 was raging and France was occupied. This is what bottled history is all about. Drink from 2024-2024.

948 Views   Tasted
My first war years Sauternes was a cool lesson in history, but a less than satisfying wine. Dark orange tea and amber in color, much of the sweetness seems to have faded while the acidity has taken the front and center position. Better on the nose with its molasses, burnt caramel, toasted sugar and butterscotch profile, the lack of sweetness on the palate made this OK to taste, but not all that exciting.

My first war years Sauternes was a cool lesson in history, but a less than satisfying wine. Dark orange tea and amber in color, much of the sweetness seems to have faded while the acidity has taken the front and center position. Better on the nose with its molasses, burnt caramel, toasted sugar and butterscotch profile, the lack of sweetness on the palate made this OK to taste, but not all that exciting.

2,036 Views   Tasted
1937
100
With a deep copper hue, the aromatics are explosive! Chocolate, coffee, crème brulee, orange, caramel, flowers, spice, butterscotch, earth and cocoa are revealed. Silky, velvet drenched layers of orange coated with cocoa and chocolate remain on the palate for well over 60 seconds. Chateau d’Yquem is expensive and some consumers feel when compared to other Sauternes, Chateau d’Yquem is not worth the difference in price. That is because they have never experienced a fully mature vintage of Chateau d’Yquem. At 75 years of age, this wine is still going to improve for another 25-50 or even 75 more years!

With a deep copper hue, the aromatics are explosive! Chocolate, coffee, crème brulee, orange, caramel, flowers, spice, butterscotch, earth and cocoa are revealed. Silky, velvet drenched layers of orange coated with cocoa and chocolate remain on the palate for well over 60 seconds. Chateau d’Yquem is expensive and some consumers feel when compared to other Sauternes, Chateau d’Yquem is not worth the difference in price. That is because they have never experienced a fully mature vintage of Chateau d’Yquem. At 75 years of age, this wine is still going to improve for another 25-50 or even 75 more years!

8,752 Views   Tasted
1934
98
This extraordinary wine hit all the right notes with its display of caramel, molasses, spice, orange rinds, butterscotch, creme brulee, and marmalade. The palate was equal to the nose with its candied oranges topped with molasses, and brown sugar, which was brought to perfection by its racy acidity that brought out all the sweetness. Drink from 2024-2044.

This extraordinary wine hit all the right notes with its display of caramel, molasses, spice, orange rinds, butterscotch, creme brulee, and marmalade. The palate was equal to the nose with its candied oranges topped with molasses, and brown sugar, which was brought to perfection by its racy acidity that brought out all the sweetness. Drink from 2024-2044.

944 Views   Tasted
1929
97
Mahogany in color, the nose showed off its caramel, butterscotch, orange rind, cooked apricot, spice and cocoa dusted orange tinted, tropical fruit character with ease. The wine still had viscosity and sweetness. I am not sure this was a perfect bottle as the color seemed a bit too dark. I imagine a better stored bottle would be off the charts!

Mahogany in color, the nose showed off its caramel, butterscotch, orange rind, cooked apricot, spice and cocoa dusted orange tinted, tropical fruit character with ease. The wine still had viscosity and sweetness. I am not sure this was a perfect bottle as the color seemed a bit too dark. I imagine a better stored bottle would be off the charts!

4,576 Views   Tasted
1928
97
Amber in color, the strong perfume is loaded with notes of butter, burnt caramel, smoke butterscotch. apricot jam and orange rind. The wine is surprisingly concentrated, fresh, silky long, bright, acidic and sweet, but not overly so, in the finish you find burnt toast with caramel, pineapple and candied green apples.

Amber in color, the strong perfume is loaded with notes of butter, burnt caramel, smoke butterscotch. apricot jam and orange rind. The wine is surprisingly concentrated, fresh, silky long, bright, acidic and sweet, but not overly so, in the finish you find burnt toast with caramel, pineapple and candied green apples.

3,890 Views   Tasted
Mahogany in color, the combination of chocolate covered orange, creme de caramel, butterscotch, caramel, dried apricot and green apple pie blows you away. Pure silk in texture, the wine cascades over your palate, drenching your senses for over 60 seconds. Lacking the same level of freshness found in the 37, or 45, this is still about as good as a wine gets. Utterly profound, the wine was effortless to drink. Young, tasters do not often get the different between Yquem and other Sauternes, especially when price is a factor. But as the wine gets more than 50 years of age, it blossoms into one of the world's great tasting experiences.

Mahogany in color, the combination of chocolate covered orange, creme de caramel, butterscotch, caramel, dried apricot and green apple pie blows you away. Pure silk in texture, the wine cascades over your palate, drenching your senses for over 60 seconds. Lacking the same level of freshness found in the 37, or 45, this is still about as good as a wine gets. Utterly profound, the wine was effortless to drink. Young, tasters do not often get the different between Yquem and other Sauternes, especially when price is a factor. But as the wine gets more than 50 years of age, it blossoms into one of the world's great tasting experiences.

5,095 Views   Tasted
1921
100
Not all legendary wines live up to their lofty status. But this did! Right from the start, the amber, translucent, mahogany color in the hand-blown bottle is a thing of beauty. From there, the caramel, burnt sugar, molasses, roasted orange rind, clove, singed, overripe mango, butterscotch, and melted butter aromas created an unforgettable bouquet, which continued to add chocolate covered orange overtones as the wine remained in the glass. On the palate, the perfect balance between the interplay of sugar, honey, roasted, orange tropical fruit, butter, acidity, and melted caramel transfixes you. Tasted for more than 2 hours, the wine never degraded. Instead, it continued adding more shades of sugary, cooked honey, and buttery sweetness to the fruits that were kept fresh by the wines racy, acidities. When young, there are sweet wines that give d'Yquem a run for the money. But after the 50-year mark, there is no equal. And now, I can safely say, that gap is even wider as the wine crosses the century mark.

Not all legendary wines live up to their lofty status. But this did! Right from the start, the amber, translucent, mahogany color in the hand-blown bottle is a thing of beauty. From there, the caramel, burnt sugar, molasses, roasted orange rind, clove, singed, overripe mango, butterscotch, and melted butter aromas created an unforgettable bouquet, which continued to add chocolate covered orange overtones as the wine remained in the glass. On the palate, the perfect balance between the interplay of sugar, honey, roasted, orange tropical fruit, butter, acidity, and melted caramel transfixes you. Tasted for more than 2 hours, the wine never degraded. Instead, it continued adding more shades of sugary, cooked honey, and buttery sweetness to the fruits that were kept fresh by the wines racy, acidities. When young, there are sweet wines that give d'Yquem a run for the money. But after the 50-year mark, there is no equal. And now, I can safely say, that gap is even wider as the wine crosses the century mark.

5,782 Views   Tasted
1892
82
Amber, if not mahogany in color, the wine is lean, with a focus on its caramel, creme brulee, butterscotch, burnt orange and light chocolate characteristics. Not much sweetness remains and just a bit of fruit still lingers, but the nose was fun and knowing you were drinking a bottle of d'Yquem that was close to 130 years old was a thrill. It was not the best old wine I have ever tasted, but it is one that I will always remember.

Amber, if not mahogany in color, the wine is lean, with a focus on its caramel, creme brulee, butterscotch, burnt orange and light chocolate characteristics. Not much sweetness remains and just a bit of fruit still lingers, but the nose was fun and knowing you were drinking a bottle of d'Yquem that was close to 130 years old was a thrill. It was not the best old wine I have ever tasted, but it is one that I will always remember.

2,901 Views   Tasted
1890
70
Now, this is a bottle you do not see everyday. Carmel in color, the flavors and aromas were focused on burnt sugar, toast, carmel, butterscotch and just a faint whiff of honey. Not much fruit remained. The sugar seems to have gone in the same direction of the fruit as it was mostly gone as well. Still, it was a thrill to hold wine in my glass that was from before the turn of the century. Ooops, make that from before the turn of the century before that!

Now, this is a bottle you do not see everyday. Carmel in color, the flavors and aromas were focused on burnt sugar, toast, carmel, butterscotch and just a faint whiff of honey. Not much fruit remained. The sugar seems to have gone in the same direction of the fruit as it was mostly gone as well. Still, it was a thrill to hold wine in my glass that was from before the turn of the century. Ooops, make that from before the turn of the century before that!

4,775 Views   Tasted