Château d'Yquem 2013

The precision and purity of an iconic Sauternes wine

The producer

Château d'Yquem’s reputation has been built up over the last 400 years, culminating in 1855 when it was raised to the rank of Premier Cru Classé Supérieur in the official classification ordered by Napoleon III for the Universal Exhibition in Paris. The only name to have reached this level, Yquem is undoubtedly one of the legends of fine wines.

The vineyard

Château d'Yquem has a hundred hectares under production, planted with 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc. The Ciron River, a tributary of the Garonne, is essential in the production of Sauternes wines and provides an exceptional micro-climate for the vines of the estate. Indeed, it is thanks this micro-climate that the morning fogs develop in autumn, just before the harvest, leading to the appearance of the noble rot, Botrytis Cinerea. In addition to the characteristics of both the terroir and the climate, Château d'Yquem's reputation also owes a great deal to its know-how and its high standards. With a drastically limited yield, Château d'Yquem produces Sauternes wines whose rarity only adds to its prestige.

The wine

This vintage - " A magnificent year for sweet wines" according to Pierre Lurton - could be the culmination of Yquem’s style.

The blend

Château d'Yquem 2013 comprises a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.

The tasting

Colour

Brilliant, the colour is a beautiful golden yellow, backed by a beautiful shine

Nose

Enchanting, precise and of great purity, this wine reveals fragrances of fresh mango, dried lime blossom and candied ginger. The botrytis cinerea is brilliant. With agitation, notes of ginger and black tea mingle together, backed by a beautiful minerality.

Palate

The attack is delicious and chiselled. A seducing and gourmet palate with aromas of white pepper, marmalade, fresh pineapple and fresh hazelnut. The finish of this fine Sauternes wine is beautifully persistent. A precise, clean and complete wine. Château d'Yquem in all its glory.