Modern, Post-War, Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts and Wine
Online-Only Auction, 18 - 25 October 2021
Wine
About this Item
Château d`Yquem, often described as the greatest sweet wine in the world and the only Sauternes First Growth of Bordeaux. Few wines in the world have produced consistently noble quality for more than 4 centuries.
Established in 1593, the property consists of a 110-hectare vineyard planted with 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. The wines are created from botrytized fruit that is picked by hand in several passes ‘tiers’ by up to 150 harvesters. Château d'Yquem is the product of meticulous work in the vineyard, along with the estate’s exceptional terroir, and centuries of inherited knowledge since 1593, it has gained the reputation of the world’s finest sweet wine.
In the Bordeaux Classification of 1855, Château d'Yquem was given the unique and unsurpassable rank of Premier Cru Supérieur, ahead of all other Sauternes, indicating its perceived superiority and ability to command by far the highest prices. The wines of Château d'Yquem are characterised by their complexity, concentration and longevity. In a good year, a bottle will only begin to show its qualities after a decade or two of cellaring and with proper care, will keep for a century or more, gradually adding layers of complexity.
Provenance
Wine Cellar Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘The ’83 Yquem retains that Barsac-like bouquet with hints of barley sugar, quince, honey and a touch of marmalade. It has very fine definition and a greater sense of exuberance than hitherto encountered. The palate is very intense, superb vibrant acidity, great sense of tension with honey, marmalade, creme-brulee and apricots. This maybe the best Yquem ‘83 that I have tasted; the length extraordinary with an almost petrolly finish.’ - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 94/100 (Dec 2008)
‘Deep apricot colour. Exotic nose of dried tropical fruit – mango? Gorgeous, full bodied, delightfully middle aged, between youthful and embryonic, and fully blown. Long and powerful though a drying hint of dried apple peel on the finish. 20 and still a long way to go.’ - Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 20/20 (Apr 2002)