Castle of Yquem - Sauternes 2005

Wine Advocate

97 / 100

byNeal Martinthe6/30/2015

Tasted at the château, the 2005 Chateau d’Yquem delivers a similar performance as last year. Lucid in colour, the bouquet is detailed with very pure honey, vanilla and almond scents, still a little new oak to be fully assimilated but demonstrating superb focus. The palate is virtually identical to last year's bottle: exquisite balance and perfectly judged acidity, but perhaps just gaining a little richness and viscosity over the last 12 months. There is an appealing completeness to this Yquem and whilst I would not place it amongst the likes of 2001 or 2009, it comfortably sits just behind.

La Revue du Vin de France

19 / 20

the10/20/2014

Palette aromatique complexe qui va de la pomme au four à l'orange confite voire à la tarte aux abricots. Un vin tout en douceur mais avec de la tenue. Il offre une grande harmonie dans une matière à la fois fluide, intense et nourrie par une gracieuse liqueur sans pour autant manquer de nerf, jolie finale d'agrumes. Superbe!

Wine Spectator

97 / 100

byJames Molesworththe1/1/2012

This has a deliciously pure feel, with juicy, inviting green plum, ginger, heather, creamed pineapple and Jonagold apple flavors all melded together and gliding through the lengthy finish, which echoes with lilting flowers and dried citrus notes. Best from 2015 through 2045. 12,000 cases made.

Wine Advocate

93 / 100

byNeal Martinthe6/20/2009

Tasted single blind at Southwold. This is a little blowsy on the nose at first, presence of warm alcohol, honeyed fruit, lanolin and yellow flowers. It needs to calm down because the palate exudes class. Beautifully balanced, good minerality, fine tension with touches of acacia honey, citrus lemon, Satsuma and quince towards the finish. Very well defined but needs time to be tamed. Drink 2012-2040. Tasted January 2009. 93+

Wine Advocate

95-98 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe5/7/2008

La Revue du Vin de France

19 / 20

the12/5/2007

Wine Spectator

95-100 / 100

byJames Sucklingthe3/29/2006

Floral, lemon, apple and cream with dried pineapple and apricot. Full-bodied, but very focused and refined. It starts slowly and then, wham! It goes on and on. Spicy, dried fruits and spices. Full-bodied, medium-sweet. So long and exciting. Incredible. It is very close to 2001. We will see. —J.S.