1988 Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes, Bordeaux, France - 750ML

99 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Château d’Yquem is the singular Premier Cru Supérieur of Sauternes, the only estate awarded that rank in the 1855 Bordeaux classification. The 1988 is one of the great mature Yquem vintages: powerful, botrytis-rich, and built with the acidity and concentration that give the château its legendary longevity. Robert Parker described the wine as honeyed, smoky, tropical, deeply concentrated, and “backward-styled,” in the mold of the great 1975.

Blend: Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc; Yquem’s vineyard is traditionally planted predominantly to Sémillon, with Sauvignon Blanc providing lift and aromatic freshness.

Tasting Notes: Deep golden and mature in expression, with layered aromas of honey, orange marmalade, dried apricot, pineapple, coconut, saffron, toasted brioche, caramel, marzipan, and smoky botrytis spice. The palate is full, concentrated, and unctuous, carrying waves of candied citrus, tropical fruit, honeycomb, crème brûlée, and dried stone fruit, all balanced by the vibrant acidity that keeps the finish precise and remarkably long.

Structure: Powerful, mature, and richly concentrated, with noble-rot complexity, bright acidity, and exceptional length.

Drink Window: 2000–2045; fully mature now, with well-stored bottles capable of continued evolution.

Decanting: Stand the bottle upright before service. Decant only if sediment is present, and otherwise open 20–30 minutes before pouring. Serve lightly chilled, ideally around 50–54°F, in white Burgundy or dessert-wine stems to preserve freshness while allowing the aromatics to expand.

A beautifully mature bottle of 1988 Château d’Yquem is a landmark Sauternes experience—luxurious, contemplative, and deeply suited to special occasions. It is exceptional with foie gras, blue cheese, fruit-based desserts, almond pastries, or simply served on its own as the final wine of an evening.