ABOUT THE WINE
Arguably the greatest sweet wine in the world, after centuries of family ownership, Château d'Yquem was sold in somewhat acrimonious circumstances to Louis Vuitton-Moët-Hennessy in 1999. However, its former owner and director Alexandre de Lur-Saluce remains in charge. Located on the highest hill in Sauternes, d'Yquem enjoys some of the best growing conditions in the whole appellation. The 110-hectare vineyard is planted with 80% Sèmillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. Harvest is painstaking; 150 highly skilled pickers pass through the rows selecting grapes berry by berry to ensure that only the finest botrytized fruit is used.
TASTING NOTES
An Yquem with more tropical undertones, showing toasted coconut, candied pineapple and pure vanilla at the beginning. This is followed by the pleasantly expected notes of clove, dried apricots and baked golden apples with brown butter. A bottle shows that the dynamic nature of Yquem can pleasantly surprise from vintage to vintage.
FOOD PAIRING
An exquisite pairing would be a posh cheeseboard with this more richly fruit forward vintage. Think Morbier, Tallegio & Epoisse with spicy mango chutney and chili sourdough crackers. Also brilliant with white chocolate and fruit tarts.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A wine for special occasions, of great elegance and distinction.