2004 d'Yquem
By Chateau d'Yquem
2004 d’Yquem from Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux
In the illustrious tapestry of Sauternes wines, it is the 2004 vintage of the celebrated d'Yquem from Chateau d'Yquem that captivates connoisseurs with its nuanced elegance. The year was marked by a particularly harmonious growing season in Bordeaux, sparing the noble rot grapes at Chateau d'Yquem from undue stress while endowing them with a near-perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
An Embodiment of Patience and Precision
The harvest of 2004 unfurled under watchful eyes, with meticulous selection ensuring only the finest botrytized fruit made its way into this extraordinary elixir. As a result, the 2004 d'Yquem exhibits a regal complexity that whispers of its careful crafting — a decisive factor for investors scanning for wines with storied provenance.
Refinement in a Bottle
Rich honey and ripe apricot dominate the palate, flanked by hints of coconut and zesty citrus peel, each sip unfolding like autumn leaves underfoot in a well-preserved wood. The touch of oak ageing lends a subtle toasty undertone that enhances rather than overwhelms. It's this kind of meticulous calibration that sets the 2004 vintage apart within the Chateau d'Yquem anthology — not merely hedonistic but sculpted with precision.
Indeed, this vintage presents an opportunity for astute wine investment, as its potential for maturation is undimmed since bottling. The poised acid structure suggests that it will age quite gracefully into further layers of complexity in the years — if not decades — to come. A cellar treasure that masquerades quietly amongst giants, yet holds its ground with finesse.
Tasting and investing in the 2004 d'Yquem presents a tangibly luxurious experience. In every glass lies a snapshot of Sauternes' mastery over botrytized winemaking; it is an elegant ambassador from a region celebrated for its golden nectar. As such, it aptly belongs within any strategic fine wine portfolio, promising delectability and refinement.
Market price (USD)
$3,780.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
206.67
Scores and tasting notes
A blend of 65% Semillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc with 128 gms/L residual, this is a very good Sauternes for the vintage and for me, superior to the slightly blowsy 2003. A creamy, honeyed nose with hints of almond, apple-blossom and hazelnut. Very good lift. He palate is well-balanced with good acidity, touches of frangipane, honey, quince and Satsuma. Very elegant on the finish with superb length, though you could argue that it does not have the persistency and penetration of the ’01. Still, very attractive indeed. Tasted April 2008.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2008
Served from an ex-chateau bottle. This replicated the performance in the Southwold blind tasting. The 2004 Chateau d’Yquem’s bouquet is generous but not as complex as either the 2005 or indeed the 2006. The oak a little pronounced considering the age in bottle, but it does not leap at you shouting “I’m Yquem!” The palate has a viscous tangerine and orange peel opening with fine acidity. There is good weight in the mouth, with touches of spice and cardamom. It finishes just a little abruptly for a Yquem, a pretty note without requisite sustain. Drink now-2035. Tasted March 2014.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 25 June 2014