2009 d'Yquem Ygrec Y
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Tasting notes
Straight out of the gate, the 2009 Ygrec conjures an amazing array of stone fruit, citrus and savory scents including fresh white peaches, ripe pears, orange blossom, pink grapefruit and lemongrass with wafts of baker's yeast, toasted almonds and sea spray in the background. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is wonderfully rich and decadently fruited with layer upon layer of perfumed citrus and mineral notes and a fantastic line of freshness enveloped in a satiny texture, finishing very long. Surprisingly, the alcohol is 14.9%, and there are 7.4 grams per liter of residual sugar here, although you would not guess either given the incredible poise, savoriness and seamlessness of the wine. This is a truly singular experience worth seeking out!
Critic scores
Average Score
The Wine Advocate
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Quite a bit of sulphur. Very sweet start. Then chewy. Just not a dry wine! Rather watery finish. (JR)
Served from an ex-chateau bottle. The 2009 Chateau d’Yquem is one showstopper of a wine and perhaps it is only in a vertical that you realize this is up there among the legendary wines of the past – the 2001 included. It has a wonderful nose that expresses the Semillon component majestically: heady aromas of lemon curd, nectarine, jasmine and honeysuckle that all gain momentum in the glass. The oak is supremely well-integrated. The palate is extremely well-balanced with an unctuous entry. You are immediately knocked sideways by the palpable weight and volume in the mouth, which is almost “bulbous,” with layer upon layer of heavily botrytized fruit. It builds to a spicy finish with hints of marzipan and pralines in the background that lend it an untrammeled sense of exoticism. The 2009 is utterly fabulous and decadent, a star that will blaze brightly and undimmed for many years. Drink now-2060+. Tasted March 2014.
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.