The 2016 Château d’Yquem, with a wine-searcher aggregate of 96/100 across approved publications, represents a step above the 2019 in the estate’s recent critical hierarchy and reflects what specialists in Sauternes have consistently described as an outstanding Barsac and Sauternes vintage of unusual natural balance, combining very good botrytis development with a freshness and acidity that many sweet wine producers in the zone described as reminiscent of the finest classical Sauternes years of the 1980s and 1990s. The 2016 benefits from the same rigorous selection and commitment to quality that defines every Yquem release, with multiple passes through the vineyard ensuring that only the most perfectly botrytised fruit contributes to the final blend of approximately 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc.

The 2016 Yquem’s specific character, described across various accounts as combining the natural richness and botrytis complexity that the best Sauternes vintages provide with a freshness and mineral acidity that prevents the wine from tipping into the over-ripeness that the very hot 2003 or other extreme years can produce, places it in the category of wines that will develop extraordinary complexity over a very long ageing arc. At only nine years from harvest, the 2016 is still in the very earliest phase of its development: the primary botrytised fruit character remains dominant, and the tertiary complexity that makes great aged Yquem one of wine’s most extraordinary experiences is still many years from revealing itself.

The 2016 Château d’Yquem is the stronger of the two Yquem vintages in this batch from a critical perspective, and its combination of good botrytis development, natural freshness and the extraordinary terroir of the estate provides a compelling acquisition for collectors with the patience to allow this wine to develop fully over the next three to five decades.

Deep gold with a complex and concentrated nose of crystallised apricot, honey, lemon curd, saffron, vanilla, beeswax, dried orange peel and the distinctive Yquem botrytis mineral character. Full-bodied with superb natural acidity providing structure and precision, extraordinary concentration and a very long, complex, layered finish. Best from 2030 through 2075.

A very classic Yquem. Breathtakingly wide spectrum of floral honey, exotic fruit (passion fruit, mango and pineapple), caramel and marzipan aromas. But none of this is a jot too much. In fact, the wine is extremely precise and finely nuanced. Wonderful freshness and textural complexity, in spite of the considerable concentration and extravagance. Very suave and sensual finish that goes on and on. Drink or hold. - James Suckling