1921 d'Yquem
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Tasting notes
This is the third bottle of 1921 Yquem that I have drunk, and what a marvel it is. Poured blind by Jacques Thienpont, whose grandfather had cellared it from release, it bursts from the glass with a kaleidoscope of aromas: quince, linseed and clementine all present and correct, just like last time, perhaps this bottle with a touch of swimming pool/algae in the background. Wonderful delineation. The palate is fresh, vibrant, taut and linear, with a killer line of acidity and an unctuous finish that seems undimmed by the passing years. Magnificent. Tasted at Etikhove in Belgium.
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Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 1921 Yquem probably has the best backstory of any wine that I have tasted, this glass purloined from the decanter being served to pop star Madonna at the adjacent table in the salad days of my career. I had to rustle back in the original Wine-Journal archives for my tasting note. Botrytis came after 38mm of rain on 1 September following a severe summer drought. Potential alcohol levels apparently ranged from 14% to 30%. Refulgent deep golden in colour, the nose bursts forth with pure honey, orange peel, crème brûlée and quince (actually, not a million miles away from the 1967). Incredibly youthful and full of vitality, this 1921 possesses incredible intensity, its richness counterbalanced by a killer line of acidity. Just a sip is sufficient to leave you in awe of this magical wine. Tasted at Mirabelle restaurant in London in November, 2000. (NM)
Brownish mahogany-amber. Pale rim. Sweet, stewed apricots. Fresh and beautiful. Amazing that a 100-year-old wine is still alive and kicking. (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.