Chateau d'Yquem 2016

The powerful expression of a pure and refined Château d'Yquem

The estate

Situated to the south of Bordeaux, Château d'Yquem is among the finest references of great Sauternes wines. This iconic Premier Cru Classé Supérieur enjoys an exceptional terroir and produces sweet wines that are sought-after throughout the world.

The vineyard

Château d'Yquem enjoys an extraordinary location, nestled in the heart of the hills of the Sauternes appellation, and comprises around a hundred hectares of vineyards that are planted on a tapestry of gravel and sandy soils.

The vintage

Marked by an exceptionally hot and dry summer, the superb Château d'Yquem 2016 reflects its radiant purity and aerial elegance, which confirm its iconic status among fine Sauternes Grands Crus Classés.

Vinification and ageing

The harvest began on September 27th 2016 and lasted until November 4th, with four successive selections and nearly 75% of the crop harvested in the last fortnight. The selection of the blend combines extreme precision at the time of vinification, meticulously keeping only the most beautiful botrytised grapes that showcased perfect acidity levels. The result reflects the work and attention paid by the technical teams of Château d'Yquem, managed by the talented Francis Mayeur.

The blend

Semillon (75%)

Sauvignon Blanc (25%)

Château d'Yquem 2016: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

The nose reveals a complex and beautifully pure aromatic palette. Refreshing notes of white fruit and flowers give way to the delicious exotic fruit flavours reminiscent of mango, vanilla and beeswax.

Palate

On the palate, Château d'Yquem 2016 offers a pleasant mouthful of complex liquor, revealing delicious notes of exotic fruit, candied fruit and a hint of caramel. Brilliant in its purity and elegance, the texture on the palate retains the finesse that is the hallmark of Yquem, thanks to the beautiful acidity, vibrant energy, that stretches out to a linguering and utterly fresh finish. A superb, complex and sophisticated Château d'Yquem Sauternes wine that promises to evolve beautifully over time.