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 2022 Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes is a wine rooted in tradition, hailing from the renowned Bordeaux region of France. This Sauternes blend is produced by the esteemed Chateau d'Yquem, which has long been synonymous with premium sweet wines. Known for their meticulous production process, Chateau d'Yquem has once again crafted a wine that captures the essence of its terroir.

The 2022 vintage is notable for its balance and complexity, characteristic of the Sauternes region. This wine is made from a blend of grape varieties traditionally used in Sauternes, though the specific varietals and percentages are not listed. However, these often include Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, grapes known for their ability to develop rich, sweet flavors.

Though the reviews for this particular vintage are not yet available, Chateau d'Yquem's wines are typically celebrated for their "luxurious texture and depth." The absence of closure details leaves a bit to the imagination, but it’s common for wines of this caliber to be sealed with high-quality corks to ensure proper aging. The alcohol percentage is also unspecified, though Sauternes wines generally range from 13-15%.

As with many wines from Chateau d'Yquem, collectors and enthusiasts anticipate a "long life ahead," with the potential to age gracefully over decades. This patience is often rewarded with the development of nuanced flavors such as honey, apricot, and roasted nuts, which are typical hallmarks of well-aged Sauternes.

In summary, the 2022 Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes stands as a testament to the skill and tradition of its producers. While specific reviews of this vintage are not available, the wine's pedigree suggests it will offer a luxurious experience, promising layers of flavor and a long, satisfying finish.