Yquem 1967

This bottle of 1967 Yquem was poured following a Petrus vertical at Hide restaurant alongside the 1893. Very concentrated grapes were picked from 26 September to 26 October. It has a wonderful bouquet, entrancing, scents of dried honey, crème brûlée, caramelised pear, fresh figs and quince bursting from the glass with fabulous delineation. Almost Barsac-like in style. The palate is lightly-spiced on the entry with tangy tangerine and marmalade notes, fig and quince, viscous and mouth-coating. This is a decadent and multi-dimensional Yquem that shows no signs of slowing down as it passes its fifth decade. Probably the best of around half-a-dozen bottles tasted over the years. 2022-2050

The 1967 Château d’Yquem is a rich, gourmand iteration of this legendary Sauternes, evocative of crème brûlée, apricot compote, marmalade and vanilla pod. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, decadent and unctuous. Many rank it as one of the great post-war Yquems, though I tend to prefer somewhat more elegant vintages such as 1955 and 1962. The 1967, however, was an appropriately decadent, even hedonistic wine with which to conclude a magnificent dinner.

Very deep amber colour. A quite astounding nose of orange-rind, apricot, sultanas and fig. Amazing definition and vitality. The palate is very intense, perhaps quite conservative in some ways. Unctuous texture, good acidity with marmalade, quince and apricot. There is a slight dryness on the finish, but this is a majestic, authoritative wine that demands attention. I just, only just prefer the 1971. Tasted November 2004.