Yquem 2008

Sauternes/Barsac, First Growth

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Tasting Notes

The 2008 Yquem, now in bottle, has a nuanced bouquet, with scents of clear honey, lime flower, vanilla and orange blossom that is beautifully defined. The palate is very harmonious on the entry, with a fine thread of acidity, tense and full of energy like the 2010 tasted alongside, with notes of white peach, citrus lemon, clear honey and a hint of quince. Long and persistent on the finish, this is a very fine Yquem that might be over-looked between the 2007 and 2009, but is a superb Sauternes in its own right. Drink 2014-2050.

Score: 96

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2014-2050 03 May 2011

Coming in with 139 degrees residual sugar and a pH of 4.75, this is an Yquem that is unequivocally top of the pile in 2008. A light straw color with green tints in the glass. The bouquet is just wonderful, very perfumed with aromas of apricot, acacia honey and white flowers. A degree less clarity than the 2007, but perhaps more nuanced, more honeyed. The palate is a little more viscous than the 2007, lacquers the mouth with honey, apricot and orange zest. Very harmonious, the finish vibrant and edgy, real tension and energy in this Yquem. Very focused on the finish - not the 'peacocks' tail of flavors that one finds on truly great vintages. But there is a surreal level of elegance and poise - an understated Yquem that should age effortlessly and returning to the glass it graces you with hints of almond and a dash of spice. In 2008, the king is king. P.S. RMP rated this blend of 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon (94-96)

Score: 95 - 97

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 30 April 2009

This shows lush creamed peach, mango, green fig, ginger and clementine flavors, with a long, gorgeous, rounded finish. Not the power of a classic vintage, but none of 2008's angularity either, with beautiful precision and impressive range. Non-blind barrel tasting.

Score: 94 - 97

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 01 January 2011

Quiet on the nose. More spiced pear and apricot than orange. Lovely concentration. Spiced power, depth and quite warm on the finish. Fresh in a powerful rather than a delicate way. Dense and long. Rich and well integrated oak though there's lots of spice all the way through. A less delicate style than many in this vintage.

Score: 18

Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2018-2036 19 May 2009

Lemon peel, spice and candied fruit on the nose, with hints of botrytis. Very balanced and refined, with a full body. Long, delicate and pretty.

Score: 91 - 94

James Suckling, Wine Spectator 01 April 2009