2013 Yquem - Half-Bottles

Recently arrived in our warehouse is a fine parcel of convenient half-bottles of the superb 2013 vintage of Chateau d’Yquem. This vintage continues the trend for the odd-numbered years producing superb vintages in Sauternes, and of course Yquem leads the pack in terms of quality as it always does. This was a slightly unusual vintage in that the residual sugar levels were a touch higher than normal, and therefore fermentation stopped naturally when the alcohol levels were at 13.1%; however, the natural acidity is so high (due to slightly more Sauvignon Blanc in the final blend – 30%) that the sugar and ripe fruit is perfectly balanced out. The summer was quite warm in Sauternes, but rains in early October produced near-perfect conditions for the rapid spread of botrytis – and by this point the grapes had already reached optimum ripeness, which allowed for this splendid wine to be made.

The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Friday, January 15, 2021. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.

Producer	Vint.	Wine	Price	Qty	Order
		Bordeaux White
Ch. d' Yquem	2013	Sauternes (375 ML) ex-Negociant	$193.99	36
	WS 98 (1/2016): Lightly toasted marshmallow and macadamia nut aromas lead the way, followed by incredibly juicy mirabelle plum, green fig, and glazed pear and peach flavors. As big as this is, there are still plenty of honeysuckle, quinine and chamomile notes kicking the finish into yet another gear. This has purity and length to burn, which it will for a couple of generations. Best from 2020 through 2050. 6,665 cases made.   JS 98 (2/2016): Bright aromas of sliced mango, papaya, botrytis, and lemon follow through to a full body, medium sweet and phenolic palate that gives the wine structure and beauty. Electric acidity and freshness yet an impressive energy and length. A severe selection was made. 40% of the production was destined to the grand vin. About 80,000 bottles made. This is 70% semillion and 30% sauvignon. Better in 2018.   NM 95-97 (4/2014): Firstly, you notice the color, which is a touch deeper than recent vintages at this stage. The bouquet is quite honeyed and rich for Yquem at this early juncture, with subtle scents of peach skin, white flowers, and a puff of chalk and frangipane. The palate is viscous on the entry, all about the texture at first, coating the mouth with luscious botrytized fruit. There are touches of Seville orange marmalade, fresh apricot, a hint of spice and passion fruit. This is imbued with impressive depth and weight, perhaps an Yquem that is determined to make an impression after last year-s absence. It might not possess the finesse of a top flight Yquem, but it has immense power and persistency.   VM 94-96 (4/2014): The 2013 d'Yquem is rich, honeyed and voluptuous in the glass, but never excessively heavy. Crème brulee, candied lemon, apricot jam, orange marmalade, sweet spices and almond paste meld together in a Sauternes built on class and finesse What a gorgeous wine this is. Antonio Galloni.