1944 Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 1944 Yquem is a rare old bird, and I asked Pierre Lurton if he would not mind pouring it specifically for this article. Of course, it is completely eclipsed by the 1945 and even the 1943. Yet it puts in a creditable performance. Very deep in color, it has an odd nose that brings to mind red fruit, Morello cherries intermixed with rosewater and cough candy, simple but pleasant. The palate has a sharp, almost acrid opening with marmalade and bitter orange with a touch of VA on the finish. It could nearly pass as a very old rouge. This is certainly enjoyable even if, for most, it would be of curiosity value only. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Dark brownish amber with a hint of green. Glowing. Macerated prunes on the nose. Not as sweet as the 1945 and a bit more bitter and edgy but so clean! Citrus peel and a little bit of dustiness. Quite a dry finish. (JR)
Yet again proving that Yquem is virtually indestructible. I have described the wine as white but actually it was almost black – treacle dark brown anyway. It had quite enough acidity to counterbalance the sweetness but it was difficult to discern botrytis effects all these years later. Rich but certainly not the richest Yquem vintage with a decidedly brûlée character. (JR)
About the producer
The undisputed finest sweet wine in the world, Château d'Yquem is the only Premier Cru Supérieur estate in Sauternes, classified in 1855. With a long history stretching back to the Middle Ages, the château is entwined with that of the Lur-Saluces family – who remain involved today.