2022 "Y" d'Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 2022 Y de Yquem was confusing because, whilst it was included in the flight of dry Sauternes, as this cuvée is billed, it was clear there was some residual sugar. As such, it works well, with a lovely yellow flower-scented bouquet and touches of linseed in the background. The palate has a touch of viscosity, a little Alsace-like, with a gentle, almost soothing finish. It coheres very well in the glass. Very fine. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting in London.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
The earliest start to the Y harvest ever: 9 August! 60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon from designated plots in the vineyard. (The Sauvignon proportion was increased from 2004/5 but the wine became too much like a regular Bordeaux Blanc so the Sémillon portion was increased from 2021.) RS 6 g/l. Sauvignon dominates the nose but there is breadth underneath that could come only from the Sémillon. The overall impression is of a fresh, zesty wine with real complexity – very unlike the Y of old. I'd love to see how these post-2021 Ys age. (JR)
The distinctive nose offers waxy yellow citrus, pineapples, lemon peel, green apples, lemon grass, orange rind, flowers, and white peaches. The fruit has a lush quality, sweetness, round textures, and a vivid display of grapefruit, gingery spice, and mango, with a touch of honey on the back end of the finish. The wine blends 60% Sauvignon Blanc with 40% Semillon. It is interesting to note, this is the earliest harvest since they began producing dry white Bordeaux in 1959.
This is a big white with sliced apple, pineapple and lychee fruit. It’s full-bodied and dense with lots of fruit and phenolics on the mid-palate. A roundness and power at the end. From the same plots as Yquem. Harvested August 9. 60% sauvignon blanc and 40% semillon. Drink or hold.
About the producer
The undisputed finest sweet wine in the world, Château d'Yquem is the only Premier Cru Supérieur estate in Sauternes, classified in 1855. With a long history stretching back to the Middle Ages, the château is entwined with that of the Lur-Saluces family – who remain involved today.