Château d'Yquem - Sauternes 1er Cru Classé Supérieur - Blanc Liquoreux 1996

Wine:

Château d'Yquem 1996, is quite simply the greatest sweet wine on the planet. The praise is not empty; the consistency and longevity of this mythical wine really set it apart. Classified "premier grand supérieur" in Sauternes, it is a member of the Bordeaux stratosphere, along with the likes of Mouton-Rothschild, Margaux and even Pétrus. Yquem is characterized by is fullness, the unctuousity of its body and the profusion of its aromas. The major characteristic remains its incredible balance. It is this magic of harmony that allows this colossus of sugar, with its long lingering finish, to take us straight down the line to the absolute. 1996 is a "classic" vintage which shows Yquem at its most true.

Vinification:

Hand harvested, traditional vinification, aging for 42 months in new barrels.

Color:

Superb golden yellow colour, sparkling clear.

Nose:

Intense on the nose and of unmatched purity, we find the classic fruit aromas (apricot, fig, quince), as well as some very obvious citrus notes (grapefruit). Very distinct floral notes also come through, which is more unusual. The oaky nuances (vanilla, toast) perfectly complement the aromatic make up. Altogether complex, subtle and elegant.

Palate:

Smooth and soft on entry, we very quickly pick up the harmonious sensations of balance and purity on the palate. This is a model wine where everything is flawless, nothing is aggressive, and which, however, lingers for a very long time. It is extremely flattering and attractive now, even though its capacity for aging seems boundless.

Temperature:

Serve around 12°C, never below

Food and wine pairing:

Fois Gras, cooked or half cooked, with candied figs or mango jam.
Fish in white sauce: sole, turbot, lobster.
White meat, casseroled chicken, poultry, feathered game.
Hard cheese: mature Comté, mature Mimolette, Parmesan.
Poached pear, apple tart....

Cellar aging:

Drink from today, can age for over 50 years.

Château d'Yquem is the only "Premier Grand Crus Classé Supérieur " in the world. Dating from 1855, this exceptional classification is the fruit of the work of one family over 12 generations: the Lur Saluces. Located in the heart of the Sauternes appellation, Château d'Yquem is a magnificant historic house whose perfectly exposed terroir produces harvests of rare concentration.