A brief history of Chateau d'Yquem Premier Cru Superieur, Sauternes, Bordeaux

Château d'Yquem, revered as the pinnacle of Sauternes wine, boasts an unparalleled history in the world of winemaking. Owned by the King of England in the Middle Ages, Château d'Yquem has produced late-harvest wine since at least the end of the 16th century. According to the official Classification of 1855, it’s the only Sauternes château ranked as Premier Cru Supérieur. The château gained immense prestige in the 18th century under the Lur-Saluces family, who elevated Yquem to its legendary status. This period marked significant advancements in the production of its unique and highly esteemed sweet wine. Found on the highest hill in Sauternes, the estate’s 103-hectare vineyard is planted to about three-quarters Semillon with the remaining parcels made up of Sauvignon Blanc. The estate was owned by the Lur-Saluces family from 1785 until 1999 when it was bought by luxury group, LVMH.

Chateau d'Yquem Premier Cru Superieur, Sauternes, Bordeaux overview

Château d'Yquem's wine is an exquisite emblem of the Sauternes appellation, primarily made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. This wine is celebrated for its extraordinary complexity, balance and longevity.

Performance

Understanding Chateau d'Yquem Premier Cru Superieur, Sauternes, Bordeaux

The terroir of Château d'Yquem is exceptional, with its vineyards strategically positioned on an elevated hill, allowing for optimal sunlight exposure and natural drainage – critical factors in the development of the noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). The soil composition, a blend of gravel, sand and clay, is ideal for the cultivation of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. The winemaking process of Château d'Yquem is an art in itself, characterised by selective picking of the grapes, often requiring several passes through the vineyard to ensure that only the best-botrytised grapes are chosen. Vinification is carried out with the utmost precision to ensure sugar and alcohol levels are harmonious, and the wine is aged in oak barrels, enriching it with subtle woody notes while maintaining its distinct character. The result is a wine that embodies the essence of Sauternes and the unmatched excellence of Château d'Yquem. This Grand Vin features apricot, honey, tropical fruit and a distinctive noble rot botrytis character which adds a unique depth and concentration to the wine. The opulent sweetness is impeccably balanced with refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours. This wine has exceptional cellaring potential.

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