1961 d'Yquem
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Tasting notes
The 1961 Yquem shows better than the bottle drunk (also in Hong Kong) back in 2019. This has a lovely bouquet with butterscotch, caramel, pressed white flowers and quince. It is a little smudged compared to the best vintages of Yquem, yet has more vitality than the previous bottle. The palate is medium-bodied, not as complex as the 1959 or 1962, endowed with an Aszù-like quality. It just misses a bit of acidic drive, though the finish feels reassuringly long and tender, with hints of desiccated orange peel and quince on the dryish aftertaste. Fine. Tasted at the 1961 dinner at Ami restaurant in Hong Kong.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Low level. Bright orange. Clean but light nose. Floral notes and a very pure, sweet palate with real drive. Great purity and lots of botrytis influence. The fruit may be fading slightly but it’s still a really lovely drink. (JR)
The 1961 Yquem lies in the shadow of the touted 1962 but it should not be completely dismissed. It leaps from the glass with scents of marmalade and dried quince, a light adhesive scent emerging with time. It is not the most complex Yquem on the nose but it is certainly well defined. The palate is medium-bodied and here one can find shortcomings because it feels a little flat and lacks tension, unusual for this esteemed property. There are redeeming orange rind and Seville orange marmalade notes that keep you interested but I cannot help feeling that it might have seen better days. Tasted at the 1961 dinner Chairman Miaow’s in Hong Kong.
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.