2020 Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes Blend

Sauternes Blend - 3L
Reg: $1,695.00
$1,475.00
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REVIEWS

JL 98 DC 96 WS 95 WA 94
JL 98

TheWineCellarInsider.com, March 2023

On the fresh, bright vibrant, racy side of the style range with a focus on its complex core of honeysuckle, dried oranges, apricots, lemon curd, saffron, marzipan, pineapple, vanilla, and just the right drizzle of honey...
DC 96

Decanter, March 2023

A masterclass in purity and delicacy for this 2020 vintage which manages to convey the beauty and allure of Yquem in a toned down, subtle and beguiling way. Aromas of white blossom and honeysuckle, gently caramelised...
WS 95

Wine Spectator, October 2023

This has a broad and unctuous feel, with nectarine, apricot and mango notes creating an opulent feel, while racy bitter almond, orange blossom and elderberry accents add contrast and range. The lush finish is carried by...
WA 94

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, October 2023

The 2020 d'Yquem presents a fresh bouquet with aromas of white fruits, orchard fruits and mango, complemented by a hint of spring flowers. It’s perfectly balanced and moderately weighted compared to other vintages, making...

WINE DETAILS

Color & Type Dessert
Varietal Sauternes Blend
Country France
Region Bordeaux
Sub-region Sauternes
Vintage 2020
Size 3L
Percent alcohol 14%
Closure Cork

Sauternes is the best and most sought-after region for dessert wine in Bordeaux, perhaps in all of France. Chateau d’Yquem is the most celebrated of all Sauternes producers.

The history of d’Yquem can be traced back to 1593, when local nobleman Jacques Sauvage became the feudal overseer of the property. The area was already home to late-harvest wines even then, and the Sauvage family moved things forward, creating “modern” vineyards—and the famous chateau—on the unique hill that contributes to d’Yquem’s outstanding quality. In 1711, the Sauvage family became full owners of the property and managed to retain it through the French Revolution.

The quality and reputation of Chateau d’Yquem wine improved as the vineyard was methodically expanded and enhanced. By the late 18th century, it was celebrated internationally and counted Thomas Jefferson among its staunch supporters. But the house continued to innovate and better its practices. The constructed a large, purpose-built cellar for maturation and aging in 1826 and, not long after, began harvesting in multiple passes to optimize fruit quality. This work was rewarded when Chateau d’Yquem was designated the only 1er Cru Superieur dessert wine in the famous 1855 classification of Bordeaux wines.

Chateau d’Yquem holds just under 300 acres of vineyard land on gravelly, well-drained soil, but only uses about 250 to make wine in any given year. The remainder is due to a program of continual replanting which ensures that producing vines are always in their prime. And the vineyard is planted only to Semillion (75%) and Sauvignon Blanc (25%), eschewing Muscadelle which is commonly used in the area but makes less distinguished wine.

Within an hour of harvest, the grapes of Chateau d’Yquem are in the winery and being pressed. Unlike most white wines, quality actually improves with multiple pressings as that extracts more sugar and flavor intensity. Chateau d’Yquem three or four times, with the initial effort yielding about 75% of the total volume.

Chateau d’Yquem does all its fermentation in new French oak barrels. This is unsual for Sauternes, but results in the most flavorful and pristine wine. Although there is variation from one vintage to the next, the typical Chateau d’Yquem wine finishes fermentation at 13.5% alcohol with 150 grams/liter of sugar.

All the barrels age for six to eight months after fermentation. At that point, under-performing barrels are set aside. The remaining barrels go to the aging cellar for 20 months, where they are topped up twice weekly to maintain freshness. For pure flavors and clarity, the wines are also racked 15 times and then fined before the final, blind tasting which determines the blend that will go into bottle.

Although not always very outgoing when young, Chateau d’Yquem is marked by fruit (apricot, mandarin, and occasionally tropical fruit) and oak (vanilla and toasty aromas). Older vintages, on the other hand, have an extraordinarily complex fragrance as soon as the bottle is opened, with hints of dried fruit (dried apricot, prune, stewed fruit, and marmalade), spice (cinnamon, saffron, and liquorice), and even flowers (lime blossom, etc.). The first impression of Chateau d'Yquem on the palate is always very silky, and often sumptuous. It then fills out, "coating the palate". This fine wine has a strong, but never overbearing character, with great elegance and poise. It always maintains a balance between sugar and acidity (sweetness and freshness). A touch of bitterness can also contribute to the overall harmony.

The 2020 Chateau d'Yquem is a magnificent representation of the Sauternes Blend from Bordeaux, France. With its elegant white color, this wine exudes sophistication from the moment it is poured into the glass. The nose is a masterclass in purity and delicacy, offering a symphony of aromas that captivate the senses. White blossom and honeysuckle intertwine with gently caramelized Mirabelle plums and fresh apricots, creating a richly scented bouquet. Subtle notes of clementine and grapefruit pith add layers of complexity to the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the 2020 Chateau d'Yquem is immediately mouthfilling and unctuous, showcasing a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. The sugary hit is followed by mouthwatering acidity, creating a sumptuous succulence that is both vibrant and refreshing. Flavors of apricot, peach, fleshy mango, and sharp pineapple provide an exotic fruit zing, while a salty flintiness adds faint angles to the expression. Hints of cinnamon spice and just-toasted bread provide the framework and structure for this remarkable wine.

Although the 2020 vintage is not as opulent as some of its predecessors, it showcases a more understated and relaxed character. With a lower residual sugar content of 135g/l, this wine demonstrates control and confidence. Despite its youthful nature, the 2020 Chateau d'Yquem is incredibly drinkable, displaying tension, clarity, and energy.

Renowned wine experts have praised this exceptional vintage. Decanter awarded it an impressive score of 96, describing it as a wine that conveys the beauty and allure of Yquem in a toned down, subtle, and beguiling way. TheWineCellarInsider.com awarded it a score of 98, highlighting its fresh, vibrant, and racy characteristics, as well as its versatility to be enjoyed on its own or paired with savory courses. Wine Spectator awarded it a score of 95, noting its broad and unctuous feel, with a range of flavors and a lush finish.

The 2020 Chateau d'Yquem is a wine that exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of the renowned producer. With its remarkable complexity, impeccable balance, and exceptional drinkability, this wine is built to impress and destined to be cherished for years to come.