Name of Estate/Domaine:
Château d'Yquem | Y (Ygrec)
Produced by:
Château d’Yquem, located in Sauternes (Bordeaux), holds the distinguished Premier Cru Supérieur classification. Renowned as the pinnacle of sweet wines worldwide, the estate also produces a rare, dry white wine known as “Y” (Ygrec), crafted in select vintages.
Country/Region:
France – Sauternes, Bordeaux. Foggy mornings and dry, sunny afternoons encourage noble rot in the vineyards, creating a terroir renowned for precision, minerality, and expressive wines.
Grape/Blend: Approximately 75% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Sémillon
ABV: Approx. 12.5–13%
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Pale lemon-gold hue.
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Aroma: Refined bouquet of honeysuckle, fresh grapefruit, green apple, and lime leaf, with a mineral, salinity-driven character.
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Palate: Crisp and vibrant with citrus fruit, quince, and wet slate notes. Long, linear, and finely textured finish offering great freshness and precision.
Terroir:
Sauternes’ combination of foggy mornings and sunny afternoons contributes to a unique microclimate that promotes freshness, minerality, and expressive aromatic profiles in white wines.
Viticulture:
- Vineyards carefully managed to balance ripeness and acidity.
- Focus on selecting grapes that express the terroir and varietal character.
Vinification:
- Fermentation at controlled temperatures to preserve aromatic purity and freshness.
- Produced in very limited quantities to ensure quality and expression.
- No oak influence, highlighting natural vibrancy and minerality.
Food pairing:
- Shellfish and oysters.
- Grilled white fish or seafood salads.
- Fresh goat cheese or soft cheeses.
- Lightly seasoned Asian dishes, especially Thai or Vietnamese.
Château d’Yquem Y (Ygrec) delivers freshness, precision, and elegance, reflecting the estate’s mastery of terroir-driven dry white wine.
Best served chilled at 8–10°C to highlight its crisp structure and vibrant aromatics.