2000 Yquem

Served from an ex-chateau bottle. The millennial 2000 Chateau d’Yquem is a valiant effort in one of the most challenging Sauternes vintages in recent memory. The 2000 is quite deep in color. The nose is crisp and well-defined but not the most complex, as you would expect from a truly challenging growing season in Sauternes. It is pleasant in its own way with delicate scents of tangerine, yellow flowers and Mirabelle. The palate is well-balanced with marmalade tinged opening. I like the acidity here, an Yquem with good race, although it does feel a little tapered toward the finish. Drink now-2025. Tasted March 2014.

14.2% 128 g/l RS, TA 4.5. Dry weather in August created a bit of stress. Harvest 18 Sep – 10 Oct. 25,000 bottles only compared with the 130,000 average. Butterscotch gold. Some obvious acidity on the nose and quite intense without great richness on the palate. A rather burnt caramel note on the finish. (JR)

Butterscotch gold. Some obvious acidity on the nose and quite intense without great richness on the palate. A rather burnt caramel note on the finish. Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com