The 2018 Chateau d'Yquem is a distinguished Sauternes blend from the Bordeaux region of France. Produced by Chateau d'Yquem, this white wine, sealed with a cork, has an alcohol content of 13.5%. The blend consists of 85% Sémillon and 15% Sauvignon Blanc, manifesting in a wine that is both rich and balanced.
Decanter awarded this vintage a score of 97, noting that the 2018 season was characterized by significantly higher temperatures and less rainfall than average, resulting in a naturally rich and low-yielding harvest. The review highlights the wine's "satin-textured apricot and white peach flavors" and "exotic fruits of pineapple and mango," balanced by fresher notes of "lime zest and citrus." Decanter concludes that this wine, while currently somewhat closed, shows "power and balance" and is an "excellent Yquem." (Decanter, 8/26/2020)
James Suckling also rated this wine 97, praising its "extremely polished and refined" character with flavors of "lightly cooked peaches and mangos" complemented by "vanilla and cream" and a touch of "lemon meringue." Suckling emphasizes the wine's texture, describing it as "creamy and so fine," with tannins that provide "energy and beauty." He notes the wine's "extremely long and impressive" finish, calling it "vivid and clean as crystal." (jamessuckling.com, 9/28/2020)
Vinous gave the 2018 Chateau d'Yquem a slightly lower score of 93, noting aromas of "dried honey and saffron" but missing some of the energy of previous vintages. The palate is described as "well balanced" with "lusciousness" and lingering flavors of "apricot and lemon curd." (Vinous, 4/19/2022)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the wine a 95, commending it as a "great success despite a challenging harvest." The review mentions aromas of "peach, pear, menthol, and orchard fruits," and describes the wine as "remarkably balanced and fresh" with a "delicate core of fruit" and "penetrating energy." (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 10/31/2023)
Wine Spectator rated it a 96, calling it a "beauty from start to finish." The review highlights "fresh, racy notes of honeysuckle, quinine, and mirabelle plum," with richer flavors of "quince, creamed pear, and white nectarine." The wine melds these flavors through the finish with accents of "macadamia nut and brioche." (Wine Spectator, 3/31/2021)
Overall, the 2018 Chateau d'Yquem is recognized for its rich, balanced flavors and impressive longevity, making it a standout vintage despite the challenging conditions of the harvest year.