Chateau d´Yquem 1971

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Served from an ex-chateau bottle. I have always stood by the 1971 Chateau d’Yquem as being one of the most seriously underrated vintages of that decade. I feel completely vindicated in this view as I batted away the 1967 Yquem when tasted at the chateau and entranced its audience. This great Yquem was born during 10 days from October 6, when warm and humid conditions caused an outbreak of botrytis. It was a small crop of just 228 barrels. Slightly deeper in color than the 1982 Yquem tasted alongside, it is blessed with a truly spellbinding nose that has such energy and frisson that you don’t know where to look. You can detect Mirabelle, ripe Satsumas, citrus peel and beeswax. The palate is vibrant, animated and simply electrifies the mouth upon entry. The 1971 has immense concentration, while the almost Tokaji Aszu-like finish is beautifully poised. This is simply an outstanding Yquem that shows absolutely no sign of reaching the end of its drinking plateau. Drink now-2040+. Tasted March 2014."

WEINWISSER: "Bernstein. Bezauberndes, komplexes Bouquet. Honig, Mandeln, Karamell, Aprikose, Minze und Safran. Im Gaumen ist er perfekt ausbalanciert dank einer perfekten Symbiose zwischen Süsse und Struktur. Optimales «Teamwork». Ein grosser Yquem."

WINE SPECTATOR: "A celebrated vintage--a beautiful wine. Thick, rich and dense, with banana, tropical, dried fig flavors. The texture is creamy and the balance is marvelous.--Yquem vertical. Best after 2010."