Producer
Château d’Yquem, the only Sauternes classified as Premier Cru Supérieur in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, is regarded as the world’s greatest sweet wine estate. With centuries of history, d’Yquem is famed for its meticulous vineyard work, late harvesting, and strict fruit selection, resulting in wines of unmatched concentration, balance, and longevity.
Vineyard
The estate’s 113 hectares sit atop the highest point in Sauternes, with gravelly, sandy soils over clay and limestone. The unique microclimate encourages noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), essential for the concentration and complexity of Yquem. Yields are famously tiny, with multiple passes through the vineyard ensuring only the finest berries are harvested.
Vintage
1979 was a cooler vintage in Bordeaux with variable conditions, yet Yquem’s rigorous selection produced a wine of finesse rather than sheer opulence. While not among the powerhouse years, the 1979 shows beautiful elegance, balance, and fine botrytis character, making it a highly appealing mature Yquem.
Tasting Notes
The 1979 Yquem pours a deep amber-gold colour. Aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, honeycomb, saffron, and candied ginger are layered with roasted nuts and crème brûlée. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and refined, offering flavours of marmalade, caramelised stone fruit, toffee, and spice. The acidity remains vibrant, giving lift to the rich sweetness, and the finish is long, silky, and harmonious. At this stage, the wine is fully mature, showing the elegance of age with tertiary depth.
Critics’ Acclaim
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90–92 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (retrospective tasting)
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Admired for its finesse and balance at maturity, offering an elegant style of Yquem rather than massive power.
Technical Information
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Region: Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
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Classification: Premier Cru Supérieur (1855 Classification)
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Blend: Predominantly Sémillon with Sauvignon Blanc
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Alcohol: ~13–14%
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Maturation: 3 years in new French oak barrels
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Closure: Cork
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Drinking Window: 1989–2025 (still enjoyable if well cellared)
A Collectible Gem
The 1979 Château d’Yquem is a refined, elegant expression of this legendary estate. With its honeyed fruit, saffron complexity, and silky balance, it remains a captivating mature Sauternes and a prized collectible for those who value the artistry of aged Yquem.
