Yquem 2003

Sauternes/Barsac, First Growth

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Tasting Notes

The average June temperature for 2003 was the warmest ever recorded at Yquem since they installed their first weather station in 1896. And things were only just starting to heat up. This notoriously hot vintage nonetheless produced some very pleasant Bordeaux surprises, Yquem being one. As readers can guess, obtaining the necessary sugar levels was not the problem this year. If it was a question of sugar alone, berries could well have been harvested in August. But come September, the wait was on for the botrytis. Fortunately, a little rain beginning on the 5th of September kick-started proceedings, and with the help of continued warm temperatures, the noble rot took off like a rocket! After this, frenetic harvesting and strict selection ensued. Harvest was over in a record nine days, resulting in a super rich, concentrated and full botrytized expression that beautifully does justice to both the vintage and to Yquem.

Score: 96

Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2019-2049 30 August 2019

Squarely on the tropical side of the spectrum, with mango, papaya and pineapple fruit laced with a marmalade note. Long and very caressing through the finish, but never heady or overpowering, as orange pâte de fruit, ginger and singed almond accents lend cut and precision. Shows the heat of the vintage while retaining energy and drive. Impressive.—Non-blind Yquem vertical

Score: 97

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2014-2040 01 July 2014

Served from an ex-chateau bottle. Picked in one trie, the 2003 Chateau d’Yquem is slightly deeper in color compared to the 2004. It is attired with an intriguing bouquet with Manuka honey, quince, honeycomb and a touch of nougat, though it does not have the pixilation of a top vintage. The palate is unctuous right from the start: gloopy in texture with hedonistic ripe honeyed fruit laced with orange zest and a strong spicy note on the finish. It has moderate length, but finishes with plenty of glycerine in the mouth. This is certainly the finest 2003 Sauternes.

Score: 94

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 June 2014

The Yquem 2003 has 145gms/L residual sugar, much higher than the 2002 and 2004 as one might expect given the growing season. The nose does not have the harmony and focus of the 2002 and for this taster lacks a little complexity. A 'fat' nose of orange-blossom, acacia honey and tangible botrytis. The palate has a 'fatness' and richness to it, but I yearn for a little more acidity. Orange peel, nectarine and peach towards the finish. This Yquem has immediate appeal, but perhaps like the 1990 it will be overtaken by fresher, superior balanced Yquems in the long run? Tasted April 2008.

Score: 92

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 July 2008

More complexity on the nose than the Rieussec. Marzipan. Richness. Citrus. Nerve. Really deep flavours with good acidity. Tense. Yes!

Score: 19

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2015-2035 18 March 2008

Subtle and racy, with lemon rind, vanilla cream and dried pineapple. Very spicy and intense. Full-bodied, with great length and flavor. Electrified yet refined, with medium sweetness and a wonderful finish. I love the class of this, and the length. Has afterburners. Best after 2010.

Score: 98

James Suckling, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2010+ 31 December 2006

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Score: 98

Albany Vintners, - Maturity: 2023 30 November -0001