Château d'Yquem

Château d'Yquem is the maker of arguably the world’s finest sweet wine, lauded for the incredible longevity and outstanding quality of its vintages.

This historic Bordeaux property sits on top of a small hill, with commanding views over its neighbouring Sauternes châteaux. It is surrounded by immaculate and well-tended vines that are famous for bearing the grapes that succumb to the noble rot or botrytis cinerea that make this renowned dessert wine.

The history of the buildings at d’Yquem dates to the 12th century, and the estate itself was established in the 16th century. Classified in 1855 as the very top of all the sweet wines of Bordeaux as the only Premier Cru Supérieur, the reputation and quality of the wines were at that time already widely known. Indeed, d'Yquem wines were considered as superior to the other First Growths of the Médoc that were recognised in the same Classification.

The 113-hectare vineyard is planted with 75% Sémillon, a thin-skinned grape ideally susceptible to noble rot, adding richness, opulence and body, and 25% Sauvignon Blanc, which adds pronounced aromatics and vibrant acidity to the blend.

Château d'Yquem's microclimate is ideal for the development of noble rot. The influence of the Garonne and Ciron rivers create morning mists which enable the botrytis to develop, followed by afternoon sunshine which ensures the grapes remain in good, healthy condition.

The methods of production are strictly controlled and monitored. Because of the need for multiple harvests called ‘tries’ during the autumn months and rigorous selection of the finest shrivelled grapes, it is said that each vine at d'Yquem only produces one small glass of the golden nectar.

Each harvest, the climatic conditions affect the yields and quality such that it is not always possible to produce this delectable wine. In 2012 for example, no Yquem was produced as the quality of the harvest was deemed insufficient for their high standards,

The results are exceptional when the vintage conditions are ideal for the botrytis cinerea to develop. Colours vary from yellow to gold and amber, with explosive aromatics ranging from dried mango and pineapple through to marmalade, butterscotch and hazelnuts. It is opulent, generous and rich on the palate, with harmonious vibrant acidity that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Because of its trademark richness and opulence, the wines of Château d'Yquem occupy a unique place in the history and appreciation of fine wine. The greatest vintages from the 19th and early 20th centuries, if well cellared, can still offer glorious tasting experiences now in the 21st century, with the more modern classics from the latter half of the last century to the present day still able to be kept for many, many decades.

There is no disputing that the wines of Château d'Yquem last for an incredibly long time and historic vintages regularly appear at Christie’s auctions. Not often seen are the exceedingly rare vintages such as the 1784 and 1787, which could still be drinking well today, as well as other historic vintages including 1811, 1814, 1847, 1864, 1865, 1893 and 1899.

From the 20th century, 1921, 1928, 1929, 1937, 1945, 1947, 1955, 1959, 1967, 1971, 1975, 1983, 1988, 1989 and 1990 are standouts. Of more recent years, highlights include 2001, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2016 and 2017.