Yquem Half 2017

Yquem 2017 is a noble sweet wine produced in the Sauternes appellation of Bordeaux. Located in the heart of the Sauternes appellation on Bordeaux`s Left Bank, Yquem is the most prestigious producer of sweet wines in the world, and the only Sauternes producer to be granted the status of `Premier Cru Supérieur`. The estate vineyard is planted mostly Sémillon, with a smaller proportion of Sauvignon Blanc, as reflected in the wine`s blend. Harvest can involve up to 200 workers, who may pass through the vineyard up to 10 times to pick only those berries that have been infected with `noble rot`, the fungus which shrivels and dehydrates the grape berries, concentrating their sugars. On the 2017. "This is a great Yquem, delivering thrilling purity and intensity. The nose offers intense aromas of fresh and dried apricot and peach pastry, as well as freshly baked creme brulee, candied and fresh orange and kumquat. Some marmalade, too. Smooth, glossy texture with flavours of grilled orange, dried apricot and an exceptionally long finish with a powerful, driving push to the end. A flicker of toasty-oak influence arrives late, but this wine has completely consumed the oak. The 2017 Yquem is a very powerful wine from a very rich and exceptional vintage. The acidity has a big hand in balancing the richness. Pithy finish. The phenolics deliver some great depth. Rain at the beginning of September prompted an extensive infection of noble rot. The harvest lasted from September 26 to October 13. Great quality and one of the best since the legendary 2001." James Suckling, 2020