Château Yquem Sauternes 1996

Robert Parker : 97 points
"Tasted at the property 12 months on from my last visit, my note for the Château d’Yquem 2005 is almost exactly the same. I feel that there is still just a little new oak to be resolved on the nose. But the palate is extremely well balanced, perhaps just a little nuttier than I remember from 12 months ago, with hints of white chocolate and crème brûlée just appearing on the finish. This needs another decade, but it is a very serious Yquem in the making. Tasted April 2015."

Wine Spectator : 97 points

"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. "

James Suckling : 95 points
"What an incredible nose of flowers, honey, spices such as clove, and sandalwood. With time, decadent aromas of apple tart and crumble develop. Full and very round on the palate, this is medium sweet with a velvety texture. Flavors of honey, apple and pear tart appear on the long finish. This is so beautiful, hard not to drink now but will greatly improve with more time."

Quarin : 98 points
"Robe dorée aux reflets verts. Nez intense, subtil et finement vanillé. Superbe entrée en bouche puis le vin se développe ample, fondant, puissant et riche au milieu avant de s’achever sur une grande finale savoureuse, fraîche, vanillée et très longue. C’est très très bon !"