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The 2013 Chateau d'Yquem is a distinguished Sauternes blend from the Bordeaux region of France, produced by the renowned Chateau d'Yquem. This white wine, sealed with a cork, boasts an alcohol content of 14.0%. It has received significant praise from several notable wine reviewers.
Geoffrey Binder of JJ Buckley awarded it a 96, describing it as "vibrant yellow gold" with a "deep complex nose" featuring "dried apricot, mango, and spiced orange marmalade." Binder praised its "unctuous and decadently rich" palate, highlighting flavors of "ripe yellow peach and white nectarine" complemented by "brighter citrus notes and a deep botrytis-driven spice." He noted its "great length and wonderful delineation" while remaining "fresh, focused, and buoyant."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also gave it a 96, with Yohan Castaing observing its "open and demonstrative" nature, evoking "aromas of apricot, saffron, musk, spices, and exotic fruits." Castaing described it as "medium to full-bodied, pure and deep," with a finish "animated with bright acids and a sappy, fleshy texture."
Wine Enthusiast rated the wine slightly higher at 98, noting its "beautifully aromatic, honeyed scent" with flavors of "bitter orange and honey, along with extreme freshness." The review commented on its balance, with "richness" from "white peach and Rocha pear."
Wine Spectator's J.M. also gave a 98 score, emphasizing "lightly toasted marshmallow and macadamia nut aromas" followed by "juicy mirabelle plum, green fig, and glazed pear and peach flavors." The review praised the wine's "purity and length" and suggested it would age well from "2020 through 2050."
James Suckling, who also rated it 98, highlighted "bright aromas of sliced mango, papaya, botrytis, and lemon," with an "electric acidity and freshness" and "impressive energy and length." He noted that 40% of the production was designated for the grand vin, resulting in around 80,000 bottles.
Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com also gave it a 98, praising its "vibrant acidity, layers of ripe and overripe tropical fruit, ladles of honey, and freshness in the finish."
Decanter rated it 95, noting its "excellent intensity and density," with "ripe pineapple and mango flavors" and a high residual sugar content of "140 grams per liter balanced by fresh, crisp acidity."
Overall, the 2013 Chateau d'Yquem is a highly acclaimed Sauternes blend, celebrated for its complex nose, rich palate, and balanced acidity. Its high ratings from multiple reviewers underscore its status as a standout wine with significant aging potential.