1976 d'Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 1976 Yquem was a relatively early harvest, picked from September 21 with 22 days of picking until October 13. Lucid amber in colour, this has a very attractive nose with marmalade, dried pineapple, smoke and fig aromas that blossom in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a tangy entry, gorgeous roundness in the mouth, just the right amount of bitterness and a focused, Aszú-like finish that lingers long. Excellent…just as it has always been. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
High notes of volatile acidity. Thick, layered, dried fruits with a strong animal and damp-hay note. Not as complete as the 1962 tasted alongside , if you please. (RH)
Tasted blind in Bordeaux, the 1976 Chateau d'Yquem reaffirms its reputation as one of the great wines of the decade, although I would suggest that that 1971 and 1975 are the true pinnacles. However, in no way do I wish to slight this Sauternes. Deep and slightly burnished in color, it offers dried pineapple, barley sugar, almond and a cheeky puff of café latte. There is wonderful definition here. The palate is underpinned by nigh on perfect acidity with orange rind, mango, crème brûlée and minerals. As it fans out towards the finish, there is a tang of Seville orange marmalade, and though it does not quite possess the persistence of the 1975 Yquem, you will be craving for the next sip. At its peak now, enjoy this great Yquem over the next 20-30 years. Tasted April 2016.
About the producer
The undisputed finest sweet wine in the world, Château d'Yquem is the only Premier Cru Supérieur estate in Sauternes, classified in 1855. With a long history stretching back to the Middle Ages, the château is entwined with that of the Lur-Saluces family – who remain involved today.