Château d'Yquem 2005

The balance and creaminess of a great Sauternes wine

The estate

The reputation of Château d’Yquem has been built over the past 400 years, reaching its peak in 1855 when it was elevated to the rank of Premier Cru Classé Supérieur in the official classification commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III for the Paris Universal Exposition. The only name to have achieved this distinction, Yquem stands unchallenged among the legends of great wines.

The vineyard

Château d’Yquem has around one hundred hectares in production, planted with 75% sémillon and 25% sauvignon blanc. The Ciron, a tributary of the Garonne essential to the creation of Sauternes wines, provides an exceptional microclimate for the estate’s vines. It is thanks to its influence that morning mists form in autumn, just before the harvest, leading to the development of noble rot, Botrytis Cinerea. Beyond the terroir and climate characteristics, Château d’Yquem’s reputation also owes much to its expertise and high standards. With drastically limited yields, Château d’Yquem produces Sauternes wines whose rarity is the source of their prestige.

Blend

Sémillon and sauvignon blanc.

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château d’Yquem 2005

Tasting

Appearance
The color is brilliant.

Nose
The nose combines intense fruity fragrances (figs, dried fruits, stewed apricots) and vanilla notes with floral hints (jasmine, acacia blossom). With aeration, delicious and refreshing zesty notes emerge.

Palate
The precise and smooth attack gives way to a silky-textured palate with perfect balance. Boasting great length, the palate reveals, with freshness and elegance, aromas of orange nonettes, licorice, and gingerbread.