| Packaging | Bottle (75cl) |
|---|---|
| Style | Wines |
| Subtype | Sweet wine |
| Colour | White |
| Vintage | 1996 |
| Country | France |
| Type of Appellation | AOC |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Appellation | Sauternes |
| Estate | Yquem |
| Current phase |
Peak
|
The values displayed here are estimates provided by users of the Viniou app and do not represent a sale offer.
| Bottle (75cl) | |
| 2025 | £378.00 |
|---|
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|
Youth
1996 - 2000
|
Maturity
2001 - 2010
|
Peak
2011 - 2035
|
Decline
2036 - 2055+
|
| Grape variety | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Sémillon | 100 % |
Château d'Yquem 1996 is a legendary sweet white wine from the Sauternes appellation in Bordeaux, particularly renowned for its exceptional quality and longevity. Although the precise blend isn't specified, Yquem typically relies on Sémillon, which brings richness and texture, and Sauvignon Blanc, which adds vibrant acidity and aromatics. The 1996 vintage benefited from ideal conditions for noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), resulting in a complex concentration of sugars and flavours. Vinification at Yquem follows rigorous selection both in the vineyard and winery, with meticulous hand-picking and fermentations conducted in new oak barrels, followed by a prolonged maturation that enhances depth, structure, and subtle oak integration.
The Sauternais region, located in the southern reaches of Bordeaux, lies along the Garonne and Ciron rivers. The unique microclimate here—marked by misty autumn mornings followed by sunny afternoons—creates the perfect environment for noble rot to develop. This climatic effect, combined with a mix of gravel, clay, and limestone soils, leads to the production of unctuous, golden wines with a thrilling balance of richness and freshness. Sauternes has been celebrated since the 18th century as one of the world’s greatest dessert wines, with Château d'Yquem standing as its undisputed flagship.
A wine of this calibre calls for carefully chosen food pairings. While traditional matches include foie gras and blue cheeses like Roquefort, Château d'Yquem's remarkable freshness allows for adventurous combinations. Try it with roast chicken with honey and apricots, lobster with citrus butter, or even spiced Asian dishes such as Thai green curry, where the sweetness and acidity provide a captivating contrast. For a classic local pairing, a simple tarte Tatin or cannelés de Bordeaux highlights both regional identity and the wine's aromatic complexity.
To fully appreciate the 1996 Yquem, serve it slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help it open up, revealing layers of marmalade, apricot, honey, candied citrus, saffron, and a lingering finish. This wine will continue to evolve for decades if carefully cellared.
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