Château d'Yquem, 1er Grand Cru Classé, Sauternes - The Pinnacle of Sweet Winemaking

A Historical Legacy of Distinction

Steeped in centuries of tradition, Château d’Yquem, 1er Grand Cru Classé, Sauternes originates from a lineage that began in the late Middle Ages. Once under English crown’s dominion as part of Aquitaine, the estate transitioned to the Sauvage family in 1593, who became full proprietors by 1711. Known for navigating Château d’Yquem through revolution and transformation, Françoise Joséphine de Sauvage d’Yquem in the 18th century constructed a wine cellar that revolutionized onsite aging, enhancing its global reputation.

Premier Cru Supérieur Classification

Acknowledged during Napoleon III’s 1855 Bordeaux classification, Château d’Yquem was acclaimed uniquely as Premier Cru Supérieur. This unparalleled status solidifies its prominence over other Sauternes wines, a distinction it confidently upholds even in contemporary times with careful stewardship under the LVMH group’s acquisition since 1999.

Unique Terroir and Microclimate

Sitting atop Sauternes’ highest points in Bordeaux’s Graves, the estate’s 103 hectares benefit from gravelly-sandy soils with clay-limestone outcrops, perfect for optimal drainage and robust vine health. The vineyards’ microclimate fosters the essential Botrytis cinerea or “noble rot,” catalyzing sugar concentration and complexity through Botrytis’ mystical touch aided by nurturing mists and warm daylight.

Meticulous Winemaking Practices

Every bottle of Château d’Yquem is a testament to meticulous winemaking. Harvested manually, the estate selects only botrytized grapes, encapsulating the rarity of producing just one glass per vine. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in new French barrels for two years, only vintages achieving peak perfection are accorded the coveted Château d’Yquem label, a quality assurance that some years offer no grand vin when standards are not met.

Sophisticated Style and Taste Profile

Color: Aging from pale gold to rich amber.
Aroma: Enticing notes of honey, apricot, pineapple, and ginger.
Palate: Decadence personified, marrying sweetness with vibrant acidity within an elegant full-body.
Aging: Capable of impressive aging of up to a century, flavors blissfully transition from fruitiness to nutty, spicy undertones.

Pairing Excellence

Château d’Yquem’s versatility impresses both traditional and modern palates. Classic enjoyment combines foie gras or Roquefort, while adventurers may explore its harmony with spicy Asian cuisines or luxurious seafood. Its complexity and finesse are equally pleasurable without accompaniment.

A Benchmark of Exclusivity

From infrequent production due to exacting quality thresholds to limited bottlings, Château d’Yquem commands worldwide admiration and investment alike. Each bottle signifies a commitment to excellence, making it less a wine and more an emblem of heritage and prestige.

Explore the distinguished world of Château d’Yquem—an embodiment of winemaking art that remains unmatched, fortified by history, crafted with precision, and cherished by connoisseurs.