Château d'Yquem 2007

The grandeur of an extraordinary Sauternes 1er Grand Cru Classé

The producer

Château d'Yquem’s reputation has been built up over the last 400 years, culminating in 1855 when it was raised to the rank of Premier Cru Classé Supérieur in the official classification ordered by Napoleon III for the Universal Exhibition in Paris. The only name to have reached this level, Yquem is undoubtedly one of the legends of fine wines.

The vineyard

Château d'Yquem has a hundred hectares under production, planted with 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc. The Ciron River, a tributary of the Garonne, is essential in the production of Sauternes wines and provides an exceptional micro-climate for the vines of the estate. Indeed, it is thanks this micro-climate that the morning fogs develop in autumn, just before the harvest, leading to the appearance of the noble rot, Botrytis Cinerea. In addition to the characteristics of both the terroir and the climate, Château d'Yquem's reputation also owes a great deal to its know-how and its high standards. With a drastically limited yield, Château d'Yquem produces Sauternes wines whose rarity only adds to its prestige.

The vintage

A 1er Grand Cru Classé de Sauternes, 2007 is one of those vintages that has written a chapter in Château d’Yquem’s legendary story. Predicted to be early, like the 1997 vintage, 2007 was in fact a late year in the development of the famous botrytis cinerea in the south of the Bordeaux region. The long-awaited noble rot took hold from the end of September until the beginning of October. Just like in 1967, the year 2007 ended late at Château d'Yquem, with perfect botrytis. Beyond this eventful year’s unusual weather conditions, Château d'Yquem 2007 triumphs as one of the greatest Sauternes vintages.

The blend

Semillon

Sauvignon Blanc.

Château d'Yquem 2007: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

Brilliant, the colour is a deep golden colour with a hint of amber.

Nose

Intense, the nose displays the precision and aromatic purity that is the hallmark of the Château d'Yquem style. The bouquet is very subtle, opening with concentrated notes of candied fruit. Then comes the gourmet notes of honey followed by spices and quince.

Palate

Energetic, the palate is precise, delicate, full and concentrated. An example of harmony, the balance between the sweetness, acidity and the wine’s alcohol, the fullness worthy of a fine Sauternes wine. The palate persists, stretching to a remarkably pure finish. A dazzling Château d'Yquem in an exceptional vintage.