1908 Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 1908 Yquem is an ancient vintage that I had never tasted before. Assiduously poured at the beginning of dinner instead of the end, this is clear with a deep amber hue commensurate with its age. The nose is intriguing, featuring rosehip, tangerine, freshly picked strawberry aromas and a touch of menthol that emerges with time. There is a sense of refinement on the nose that translates across onto the palate built around a keen spine of acidity. The 1908 is a lighter style of Yquem with tinges of orange rind and marmalade, then tapers toward the finish. This is a delightful century-plus Sauternes that is comfortable in its dotage, trotting along nicely and not at all elegiac. Tasted at "Koala's" Bordeaux dinner in Hong Kong.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Dark glowing, brownish amber. Ancient but very rich, powerful nose. Lots of muscular power. Not massively sweet though definitely some clean sweetness. Edge of citrus peel. So clean. Balance and wonderful freshness on the palate. Gorgeous finish. Worth drinking! Amazing undertow on the finish. Very gradually losing sweetness but not dangerously so. Long. Beautiful. Vigorous. Best wine of the tasting. (JR)
About the producer
The undisputed finest sweet wine in the world, Château d'Yquem is the only Premier Cru Supérieur estate in Sauternes, classified in 1855. With a long history stretching back to the Middle Ages, the château is entwined with that of the Lur-Saluces family – who remain involved today.