1979 Chateau d’Yquem Premier Cru Superieur, Sauternes 1x750ml

Vinous 89

The 1979 Yquem came from a small cache of half-bottles I acquired for "sixpence" many moons ago. It is a pretty decent Sauternes for the vintage, featuring plenty of rich apricot and quince on the nose along with emerging hints of Barsac-like barley sugar. The palate has perhaps not aged quite as well, displaying sharp acidity and less harmony than other vintages. This would pale against the 1975 or 1976, yet for an off vintage, it is commendable. Tasted from a half-bottle at home. [Neal Martin, 09/10/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2028

Robert Parker 91

First tasted from a 1/2 bottle in July 2002. Effulgent gold. Magnificent nose of marmalade, apricots and peach. Full-bodied, loads of botrytis with intense rich apricot, quince and almonds on the palate. Drunk from a half bottle. This is one of my favourite Yquem’s from an under-rated year. To be drunk with the utmost pleasure now. But showing signs of age in November 2004, this time from a full-bottle and less impressive. A deep gold/amber colour. Almond, apricot and barley sugar on the nose. The palate is unctuous with sharp acidity. Much more simplistic than the 1/2 bottle, honey and beeswax. Somewhat angular and pinched on the finish. Still a lovely nectar though. [Neal Martin, 11/01/2004]

Anticipated maturity: 1990-2020