Ch.D'Yquem 1967 750ml

eRobertParker.com #213, Jun 2014
While the 1971 Yquem appears to have been overlooked, I have always felt that the much-lauded 1967 Chateau d’Yquem has never quite lived up the billing. Picking commenced on September 26, and the first 76 barrels were brought into the winery by October 3, even though light showers interrupted the picking. The legend was built on a sudden spell of hot weather in mid-October when even night temperatures did not fall, leading to an explosion of noble rot. In total, 409 barrels were eventually priced. It has a slightly light color than the 1971. The nose is elegant with scents of mandarin, marmalade, wet wool and Japanese yuzu, although it distinctly lacks the same energy as the 1971. The palate is well-balanced with fine tension and beautifully judged acidity. It feels more mature than the 1971 and while it has not reached the end of its drinking plateau, it certainly feel the age in its bones. It has commendable length, but not near that of top vintages such as 2009, 2001, 1990 or the 1971. Drink now-2025. Tasted March 2014.

Chateau d'Yquem is often described as the greatest sweet wine in the world. After centuries of family ownership, Yquem was finally sold in acrimonious circumstances to Louis Vuitton-Moët-Hennessy in 1999. However, its former owner and director Alexandre de Lur-Saluce remains in charge.
Yquem is located on the highest hill in Sauternes and enjoys the best growing conditions in the whole appellation. The 110-hectare vineyard is planted with 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. Only fully botrytized fruit is picked by the 150 highly skilled pickers and yields are so low that each vine produces only one glass of wine.
Yquem is fermented in oak barrels (100% new) and is left in barriques to mature for up to 36 months. Intensely opulent when young, Yquem develops an extraordinary complexity and exotic richness when fully mature, with the best vintages lasting for over 50 years. Château d'Yquem is classified as a 1er Cru Classé supérieur.

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