TASTING NOTES:
One of the high points of this vertical tasting, the 1989 d'Yquem is a magical wine offering up a complex, refined bouquet with aromas of quince, apricot, pineapple, menthol, flowers and white truffles, followed by a full-bodied, concentrated and seamless palate, pure and vibrant structure and lively acids, concluding with a long, perfumed, ethereal finish.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 99 pts.
A remarkable, profound example of how top Sauternes wines age, with intense notes of marmalade on the nose. Although it seemed there were some hints of passerillage, Sandrine Garbay confirmed no dried grapes made it into the blend. A subtle note of botrytis adds even more to the aromatics. Amber in hue, the palate is laden with complex flavours of tropical fruits, citrus notes of lime and orange zest, all supported by cleansing acidity and an intriguing mineral undertow. This still has at least 20 years ahead of it, perhaps a lot more. From a year where the growing season was very warm, before a cool and rain-affected September and much cooler October. 80% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon Blanc. Residual Sugar: 127g/L.
- Decanter, 97 pts.
Very classy and beautiful, packed with botrityzed flavors. Marvelous blend of vanilla, cream, tobacco-box notes, with a lot of oak on it for now but also loads of pure, clean and elegant fruit. An infant that will age for a long time.
- Wine Spectator, 97 pts.
The 1989 Yquem is such an excellent Sauternes that just never lets you down. It has similar aromatics to the previous bottle a couple of years ago with saffron and quince. A little more marmalade comes through with aeration. There's real energy and outstanding delineation here. The palate is well-balanced and takes time to meld together before it offers a cornucopia of flavors: marmalade, tangy and spicy with a touch of stem ginger. Plenty of botrytis on the finish - maybe now reaching its peak? But it will be a very long plateau.
- Vinous, 95 pts.
