Parker about Château d´ Yquem Sauternes (0.375l) 2003
The average June temperature for 2003 was the warmest ever recorded at Yquem since they installed their first weather station in 1896. And things were only just starting to heat up. This notoriously hot vintage nevertheless produced some very pleasant Bordeaux surprises, Yquem being one. As readers can guess, obtaining the necessary sugar levels was not the problem this year. If it was a question of sugar alone, berries could well have been harvested in August. But come September, the wait was on for the botrytis. Fortunately, a little rain beginning on the 5th of September kick-started proceedings, and with the help of continued warm temperatures, the noble red took off like a rocket! After this, frenetic harvesting and strict selection ensued. Harvest was over in a record nine days, resulting in a super rich, concentrated and fully botrytized expression that beautifully does justice to both the vintage and to Yquem.
Description
Land | France |
Region | Bordeaux Sauternes |
Rebsorten | Semillon 80%, Sauvignon Blanc 20% |
Alkoholgehalt | 14.00% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | cork stopper |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | White |
Inverkehrbringer | Chateau d'Yquem, 33210 Sauternes, France |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 12-14°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 2019 - 2060 |
Parker Punkte | 96 |
Jahrgang | 2003 |
Bordeaux Sauternes, France 🇫🇷

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Château d´ Yquem Sauternes (0.375l) 2003

The 2003 Château d'Yquem is a legendary Sauternes from a challenging yet exceptional vintage. Château d'Yquem is considered the top winery in Sauternes and is the only winery in the region to be classified as a Premier Cru Supérieur in the 1855 classification. The 2003 vintage was marked by an extreme heatwave, which, however, had a positive effect on the development of the sweet wines in Sauternes and Barsac. The warm conditions led to early grape concentration and intense botrytis (noble rot) development, producing rich, opulent wines.
In the glass, the 2003 Yquem displays a deep golden color that fades to amber over time. The nose is seductive and intense, with aromas of candied apricots, honey, tropical fruits such as mango and pineapple, as well as notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of saffron. This complex aroma is typical of Château d'Yquem, which is renowned for its exceptional balance between sweetness, freshness, and depth.
On the palate, the wine is extremely concentrated and voluptuous, with a silky texture and a perfect harmony between opulent sweetness and invigorating acidity. The aromas are reflected on the palate, complemented by nuances of spice, candied citrus, and a mineral freshness. The finish is extremely long and complex, with impressive depth and persistent intensity, typical of great vintages from Yquem.
The 2003 Château d'Yquem has enormous aging potential and can easily be stored for many decades, gaining increasing complexity. It already offers a great tasting experience, but will gain even more elegance and depth with further maturation.