1939 d'Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 1939 Château d'Yquem might well turn out to be the only Sauternes I will taste from this long forgotten vintage. Having said that, it's probably one-hundred times better than anything else. According to Michael Broadbent's "Vintage Wine," it was harvested between September 30 and November 6 (and incidentally, awarded it four-stars). Lucid gold, it has a light chlorine-tinged bouquet with melted wax scents, simple but pure. The palate has a pleasing viscosity on the palate, almost Auslese-like in texture. There is not much botrytis here, but there is a pleasing Christmas cake, stewed fig and marmalade finish that is very satisfying. It is not the greatest Yquem I will ever try, but given the historical significance of this year, it is a privilege to encounter this wine and it is far better than I could have predicted.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
This remarkably fresh, frisky bottle looked and smelt like dark caramel. What life and power! Very, very rich and sweet – just what Yquem alone seems to be able to do: deliver concentration, complexity, super-refreshment and particularly apt longevity. - drink when you can (JR)
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.