1995 Ch D’Yquem Sauternes 750ml, Bordeaux

The 1995 Chateau d’Yquem is moving into its secondary aroma phase. A deep golden color, it has a dense and almost Barsac-like bouquet with tangerine, apricot, acacia and melted candle wax. It displays good intensity, unfolding beautifully in the glass. The palate has a strident opening, with a slight bitter edge that lends this Yquem great tension. One can discern layers of marmalade infused with honey fruit, with a powerful, spicy finish that lingers long in the mouth. This is drinking perfectly now, but will surely age with style over many years. Tasted March 2014.

95 points Robert Parker robertparker.com

Château d’Yquem 1995 Sauternes is a majestic, slow-evolving treasure from one of Bordeaux’s most revered estates, produced from fruit touched by noble rot in perfect harmony. The 1995 season brought a steady, warm ripening period punctuated by the gentle autumn mists of the Ciron River, allowing botrytis to concentrate Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc into essence. Yquem’s legendary selection process means only the most exceptional berries were chosen, harvested in multiple passes and fermented slowly in new French oak barrels before long, unhurried maturation in the château’s cellars. Nearly three decades later, the wine sits in a glorious window of maturity where sweetness, acidity and complexity are in magnificent equilibrium.

Aromas unfurl with remarkable depth. Apricot nectar, marmalade and dried pineapple mingle with orange blossom, quince paste and honeycomb. Beneath the opulent fruit lies warm spice, toasted brioche and subtle almond nougat, layered over beeswax, saffron and hints of crème brûlée. Time in bottle has added rich notes of caramelised citrus, wildflower honey, lanolin and a breeze of botrytis spice.

The mouthfeel is plush yet perfectly balanced, with luxurious fruit gliding over crystalline acidity that keeps the wine vibrant and poised. Flavours of apricot tart, candied peel, tropical fruits and vanilla cream unfold slowly, followed by ginger, almond and silky oak warmth. The finish is seemingly endless, lingering with honeyed fruit, spice and a delicate mineral echo that reminds you this is not merely sweet wine, but one of the world’s great vinous experiences. It can age effortlessly for another twenty to thirty years, deepening into realms of truffle, caramel, smoke and roasted nuts.

A sublime partner for foie gras, Roquefort, tarte tatin, panna cotta with apricot or simply enjoyed alone as a luxurious meditation. This vintage is a testament to why Yquem is considered the pinnacle of Sauternes.