Château d’Yquem is the crown jewel of Sauternes and the only estate classified as Premier Cru Supérieur in 1855. Known for its meticulous selection and ability to craft wines of extraordinary longevity, Yquem has stood as the benchmark for the world’s greatest sweet wines for centuries.
Vineyard
The estate sits on the highest point of Sauternes, where its gravelly, clay-limestone soils and unique microclimate encourage noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). Each harvest involves multiple vineyard passes, ensuring only perfectly botrytised berries are selected, leading to low yields but remarkable concentration and complexity.
Vintage
1981 was a challenging and cooler year in Bordeaux, though in Sauternes, careful selection produced elegant, lighter-styled Yquem. It is not as rich or powerful as the greatest vintages, but the 1981 stands out for its balance, charm, and refined expression of botrytis.
Tasting Notes
Now fully mature, the 1981 Yquem shows deep amber-gold hues. The bouquet opens with dried apricot, orange marmalade, honey, and candied ginger, layered with caramel, almond, and a touch of saffron. The palate is silky and medium-bodied, offering flavours of toffee, roasted nuts, citrus peel, and sweet spice, lifted by lively acidity that prevents heaviness. The finish is elegant, lingering, and complex.
Critics’ Acclaim
-
90 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
-
Admired for its finesse and balance, making it a classic example of an elegant rather than opulent Yquem.
Technical Information
-
Region: Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
-
Classification: Premier Cru Supérieur
-
Blend: Predominantly Sémillon, with Sauvignon Blanc
-
Alcohol: ~13–14%
-
Maturation: Around 3 years in new French oak barrels
-
Closure: Cork
-
Drinking Window: 1990–2025 (showing peak maturity now)
A Collectible Gem
The 1981 Château d’Yquem is a rare, fully mature vintage that exemplifies the estate’s elegance and precision in a challenging year. For collectors, it offers a unique opportunity to own and taste a refined chapter in Yquem’s history.
