Sauternes AOC 1er Cru Classé Supérieur 2021 Château d'Yquem

The Sauternes Château d'Yquem is born in vineyards located in the Gironde, south of the Bordeaux region. Château d'Yquem is one of the premier crus included in the Official Classification of Bordeaux Wines of 1855, the only Sauternes. This classification system was wanted by the Emperor Napoleon III on the occasion of the Universal Exposition in Paris, in order to make the best Bordeaux wines more recognizable even outside the borders of France. The wines were ordered from first to fifth cru based on the winery's reputation and price, which at the time was a factor directly related to quality. Together with the other premier cru, Grand Classé is considered a legend that made the history of wine.

It is mainly produced with Sémillon grapes and with Sauvignon Blanc grapes, harvested at the end of September, after the bunches left to dry on the plant, have been attacked by the noble rot, Botrytis cinerea. Fermentation takes place in barriques for 2-6 weeks at a controlled temperature, with a rest on the yeasts for at least 6 months. Subsequently the wine is aged for 20 months in barriques, before being bottled.

This Sauternes is characterized by an intense amber yellow color. The nose opens with a complex and harmonious bouquet of white flowers and fruit, with fragrant aromas of dried apricot and candied fruit, accompanied by hints of honey, cinnamon, saffron and nougat. On the palate it is velvety and dense, full-bodied, with hints of honey and citrus peel that prelude a pleasantly spicy finish.

Perfect to accompany blue and aged cheeses, this sweet wine is ideal in combination with fruit tarts and dry or cream pastries.