Yquem 1997

Sauternes/Barsac, First Growth

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Tasting Notes

Pungent, rich and very fine. Exciting. Great stuff. Long and rich.

Score: 18

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2006-2028 27 April 2010

I must admit to being rather underwhelmed by this feted Yquem. A slightly deeper colour compared to the -96 and like that wine, the nose is reluctant to show its colours at first but after 20-30 minutes becoming very honeyed with touches of clementine, almond and acacia honey. The palate is full-bodied and unctuous in texture, perhaps just lacking a little definition? Dare I say a tad cloying on the finish. I prefer the tension displayed on the 1996 but this does settle down in the glass.

Score: 94

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2020-2040+ 01 March 2008

A sensational Yquem, 1997 may be this estate's finest effort since 1990 (although I would not discount the 1996 turning out to be nearly as good). The 1997's light gold color is accompanied a gorgeous perfume of caramel, honeysuckle, peach, apricot, and smoky wood. Full-bodied and unctuously-textured, with good underlying acidity as well as loads of sweetness and glycerin, it looks to be a great vintage for this renowned Sauternes estate. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2055. Note: Yquem spends 42 months in 100% new oak. No cask tasting is permitted, and the wine is not released until 5 years after the vintage. For example, the 1998 will be released some time in 2003; the 2001 will not be released until 2006.

Score: 96

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2005-2055 01 April 2003

Extremely concentrated, yet subtle. Aromas of honey and spices, with an intense botrytis nose. Full-bodied, thick and fruity, with orange peel and lemon rind character. Medium sweetness. Balanced, yet thick and backward. Reminds me of the harmonious 1990--certainly the best since then. Best after 2008. 14,000 cases made.

Score: 95

James Suckling, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2018+ 15 October 2002