2008 d'Yquem
By Chateau d'Yquem
2008 d'Yquem from Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux
In the annals of sweet wine supremacy, the 2008 d'Yquem from Chateau d'Yquem shines as a testament to the meticulous viticulture and innovative spirit that define this illustrious Bordeaux estate. This vintage embodies the intricate dance between nature's whimsy and human prowess.
A Vintage Defined by Patience and Precision
The 2008 vintage in Sauternes was not without its trials; a testing year that demanded both patience and precision in equal measure. The weather patterns played their part astutely—gifting winemakers with a late harvest that ensured noble rot developed with restrained vigor, vital for the intoxicating complexity for which d'Yquem is renowned.
The 2008 d'Yquem distinguishes itself with an exquisitely structured palate where opulent fruit notes are perfectly juxtaposed with a remarkable minerality. One finds an ensemble of candied apricot, honey, and ripe quince enthralling the senses. Gentle whispers of coconut and citrus zest add a luscious layer to this aromatic tapestry.
A Connoisseur's Chronicle: Investment Merits
The longevity of the 2008 d'Yquem is clear; a result of its masterly balance and structure suggesting a life span that will guarantee pleasure for decades, heralding it as an insightful acquisition for the astute fine wine investor.
In the realm of collectible sweet wines, the 2008 d'Yquem stands as a sterling example of Sauternes’ charisma—offering investors not only a wine of exceptional pedigree but one that encapsulates the uniqueness of its vintage. Each glass is a rich historical chronicle that adds lustre to any investment portfolio.
While Sauternes might not command the immediate conversation such as its red Bordeaux brethren, in vintages like 2008, the wines from Chateau d'Yquem compel attention and respect. The 2008 d'Yquem represents an invigorating chapter in the Chateau’s storied legacy—a beacon of vinous brilliance set to rise on both the palates and portfolios of those who covet liquid gold.
Market price (HKD)
HK$23,080.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
151.25
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted single blind against its peers. The Yquem 2008 is easy to spot in a blind line-up: it is (to quote Tina Turner) simply the best. It has a subtle, delicate but very pretty bouquet with fine definition and astounding minerality. The palate is beautifully poised, tense and tightly coiled on the entry and then it just explodes in the mouth with pure, unbridled, joyous botrytized fruit struck through with a silver thread of acidity. It displays exemplary tension and freshness, along with great persistency in the mouth. This is an outstanding Sauternes 2008 and another impressive Yquem. Tasted January 2012.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #199 February 2012
Sporting a medium lemon-gold color, the 2008 d'Yquem is forward, displaying an already complex, compellingly savory/earthy nose of toasted almonds, cloves, damp soil, crushed stones and yeast extract with a core of peach preserves, lemon tart, dried pineapple and allspice. Rich, spicy and decadent in the mouth, with a racy backbone lifting the fruit, it finishes long and multilayered.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 2019