1996 Château d'Yquem, 1er Grand Cru Classé Sauternes

1996 Château d'Yquem, 1er Grand Cru Classé Sauternes

Château d'Yquem produces one of the greatest white wines in the world. The château is situated on the highest point of a hill that overlooks the other four communes of the Sauternes district so that both geographically and vinously it dominates the region. Planted with 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, the vines are severely pruned to such an extent that, following the onset of botrytis, the production of one entire vine equates to just one glass of wine. Every berry is picked individually and everything relating to the production of this awesome wine is traditional. It is never less than outstanding.
“Compared with the flamboyant aromatics of the 1997, Yquem's 1996 plays it closer to the vest, although there is a lot going on. Light gold with a tight but promising nose of roasted hazelnuts intermixed with creme brulee, vanilla beans, honey, orange marmalade, and peaches, this medium to full-bodied offering reveals loads of power in its restrained, measured personality. There is admirable acidity, weight, texture, and purity in this impeccably made Yquem. However, patience will be a virtue.” Robert Parker – 95 points.

Critic score
95/100 info
Pricing
info
Bottle
From a client
Report
1 available
£575.00

Wine details

  • Region & country
    Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
  • Maturity
    Ready 2011 - 2040info
  • Colour
    White
  • Sweetness
    Sweet
  • Style
    Still
  • Unit Volume
    Bottle (75cl.)
  • ABV
    14.5%
  • Classification
    Premier Cru Supérieur

Tasting notes

Compared with the flamboyant aromatics of the 1997, Yquem's 1996 plays it closer to the vest, although there is a lot going on. Light gold with a tight but promising nose of roasted hazelnuts intermixed with creme brulee, vanilla beans, honey, orange marmalade, and peaches, this medium to full-bodied offering reveals loads of power in its restrained, measured personality. There is admirable acidity, weight, texture, and purity in this impeccably made Yquem. However, patience will be a virtue.

Robert M. Parker, Jr.
95/100

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