Gold in a glass: An unforgettable visit to Chateau d’YQuem
Chateau d’YQuem is unlike any other winery I have visited. Some people call them the “crown jewel of Sauternes” and I can totally see why after visiting this winery. This unique wine tour and tasting experience left me wanting to know more, their rich history, the story of Josephine, and attention-to-detail in every aspect of their wine making process was far beyond my imagination. It’s no wonder that the third US President Thomas Jefferson had such a love affair for this sweet dessert wine.
Main castle of Chateau d’YQuem
Nestled amongst the rolling misty hills of Sauternes, the grounds of d’YQuem are simply breathtaking. This legendary estate preserves many of the original buildings and wine cellars, dating back all the way to the 1300s. As we were walking through the grounds we were so impressed by how well preserved and manicured everything was. This place is not only filled with history and science but also incorporated technology into our experience as we were guided to a 3D video projection showcasing the vast area of the vineyard.
The Noble Rot
The noble rot as they call it, is the process by which the fungus botrytis cinera infects the grapes and concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes. What makes this region really unique is where the two rivers meet it creates a microclimate where morning fog rolls in and disappears by the afternoon, allowing the botrytis fungus to work their magic. We stood among clusters of golden shriveled grapes, marveling that such humble-looking or even ugly-looking grape could make something so divine. And yes we were so lucky to have tasted one. Sweet, concentrated, with an intensity unlike anything I have tasted.
Why is d’YQuem so expensive?
Some of you may wonder, why is d’YQuem so expensive? After visiting the winery, I finally understood why. First, since the product begins from shriveled grapes which have essentially lost 50% of its juice, it will require a lot more grapes and vines to make a bottle of wine compared to the regular non-sweet counterparts. Additionally, the harvesting process requires significantly more precision and since the grapes do not all shrivel at the same time, the farmers will have to comb through the vines multiple times in order to harvest only the dark shriveled grapes that is ripe and ready for making this beautiful gold liquid. According to our guide, here at Chateau d’YQuem, they often go back up to 10-12 times to harvest the perfect grapes.
With great pride and their legacy of excellence, d’YQuem does not release a vintage if it’s not up to standards. While we were there visiting, it was right after harvest season so we were fortunate enough to be able to witness and hear the 2024 vintage quietly fermenting in oak barrels. It was pretty cool. Another rather unique thing I noticed as we walked through the wine fermentation rooms is the incredibly aromatic perfume of candied citrus, honey and vanilla - nothing like I have ever smelled in any other wineries, so unique to d’YQuem that I really want to bottle into a fragrance.
Chateau d’YQuem majestic and impressive Wine “Cathedral” Barrel Storage
Gold in a Glass: it feels like time has stopped
Chateau d’YQuem Sauternes
2006 and 2016
And finally - the moment.
We tasted both the 2006 and 2016 vintages that day, and I must say, the experience was ethereal.
The 2016 was youthful but already nicely layered with flavors of candied tangerine, wild honey, apricot and notes of almond. In contrast, the 2006 was more developed and mature with aromas of vanilla, caramel and hints of saffron. Its rich texture lingers in your mouth like the last note of a beautiful song. Both undeniably luxurious yet silky in its finish, sweet but never heavy balanced by its acidity - in part this is what d’YQuem is so famous for.
Closing Thoughts
This wasn’t just any tasting. It was an eye opening experience for me to learn so much about what makes d’YQuem who they are - their land, labor, and legacy. Josephine’s passion for the art and drive for innovation is simply setting the standards of true craftmanship. Her ability to breakthrough despite all adversaries was truly remarkable and admirable. What an innovator!
The next time you have an opportunity to visit France or the Bodeaux region perhaps consider a visit to Chateau dY’Quem with Ophorus Tours. Thank you Ophorus - we had a wonderful time visting Sauternes.
