1996 d'Yquem
By Chateau d'Yquem
The 1996 d'Yquem from Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux
Enwrapped in the historical tapestry of Bordeaux's prestigious dessert wines, the 1996 d'Yquem triumphs as a testament to the exceptional selectiveness and skill of Chateau d'Yquem. Reflecting upon a vintage that witnessed a dichotomy between a scorching summer and timely September showers, this Sauternes is a revelation in the alchemy of nature and nurture.
Investment-Grade Liquid Gold
The meticulous sorting of grapes, an art refined through centuries at Chateau d'Yquem, reached its zenith with the 1996 vintage. Each berry, imbued with optimal botrytis cinerea—the 'noble rot'—and patiently harvested, has culminated into a nectar that investors acknowledge as much for its rarity as for its enchanting flavour profile.
An Autumnal Harvest Par Excellence
The unpredictable equinoxial rains endowed the 1996 harvest with an excitement that can only be compared to an impassioned symphony, culminating in a crescendo of tastefully orchestrated sweetness and acidity. The autumnal indulgence in this vintage is palpable, with honeyed apricot and candied citrus peels interlacing with alluring hints of saffron and toasted almond—a kaleidoscope that ensnares both the olfactory senses and the palate.
Yet beyond its seductive allure lies the structure—a bold complexity—signifying a remarkable longevity that promises to unfold over decades. Herein resides the investment appeal: it is not merely a bottle; it's an appreciating asset weathering time with unwavering grace.
The Nexus of Opulence: A Collector's Jewel
To sip on the 1996 d'Yquem is to partake in an ethereal experience; yet to hold it within one's portfolio is equally intoxicating. As seasoned connoisseurs and astute investors well know, maturity beckons this vintage, rendering its presence in collections both prestigious and wise.
In summing up, the 1996 d'Yquem stands as one of Sauternes’ grand achievements from Chateau d'Yquem—a vintage distinguished by its harmonious balance, robust yet elegant character, and investment-worthy pedigree. Its evolution in bottle continues to captivate those fortunate to possess it, ensuring that its story—much like its taste—grows richer with each passing year.
Market price (GBP)
£2,580.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
172
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted single blind at Farr’s 2005 dinner in Hong Kong. It is a while since I last tasted this vintage. Like before, the nose is tightly coiled and demands coaxing from the glass, but eventually it yields and offers a lovely bouquet of wild honey, honeysuckle, lemon curd and barleysugar. The palate is more tensile then I remember on the entry, with a keen thread of acidity and notes of mandarin, Seville orange, tinned apricot and honey, hints of almond sprinkled over the finish. It does not quite have the complexity of a top flight Yquem, but it is still a great Sauternes for long-term consideration. Tasted November 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2012
Compared with the flamboyant aromatics of the 1997, Yquem's 1996 plays it closer to the vest, although there is a lot going on. Light gold with a tight but promising nose of roasted hazelnuts intermixed with creme brulee, vanilla beans, honey, orange marmalade, and peaches, this medium to full-bodied offering reveals loads of power in its restrained, measured personality. There is admirable acidity, weight, texture, and purity in this impeccably made Yquem. However, patience will be a virtue. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2060. Note: Yquem spends 42 months in 100% new oak. No cask tasting is permitted, and the wine is not released until 5 years after the vintage. For example, the 1998 will be released some time in 2003; the 2001 will not be released until 2006.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 2003