CHATEAU D'YQUEM 1990, Sauternes MAGNUM

99pts from Wine Advocate and 95pts from Wine Spectator. Château d'Yquem has a colorful history to say the least!! During the Middle Ages the site was owned by the King of England who had a dual role as the Duke of Aquitaine who reigned over southwest France. Finally, in 1453 the region was back in the power of French ruling with Charles VII taking over. Ever since then it has stayed in the possession of the French government. In 1593 Jacques Sauvage (a local noble) acquired the property. He took over the already existing winegrowing and late harvesting practices per the Gironde Department and the Château's archives. It is his family that built the existing château and composed the current lay out of the vineyard plot by plot. In 1711 the family received an even higher-ranking noble status during King Louis XIV reign. Then in 1785, Françoise Joséphine de Sauvage d'Yquem married Count Louis Amédée de Lur-Saluces who unfortunately passed away in 1788 leaving Françoise Joséphine's as the head of the family and the estate. By this time Yquem was a status symbol for the elite and famous connoisseurs of the period specifically Thomas Jefferson. Even though Françoise Joséphine who was thrown in prison twice for staunchly opposing the French Revolution, she managed to hold onto the estate and continued to grow it into a prosperous business. In 1826 she, along with her steward, took a risk by having a new wine cellar built. This move is what truly transformed the estate into a business and also developed its international reputation further. Furthermore, during Françoise Joséphine's ownership the method of picking in several passes was developed. It was her that created the processes and methods still currently being carried out for production. During her time at Yquem, the Château truly became what it is today!! A blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc give deep golden hues. Aromas of caramel, toffee, honey, dried orange peel, and candied stone fruits lead into a rich and concentrated palate of honeyed tropical fruits, peaches, coconut, and apricots. Sweet and layered, the finish is long and lush showcasing the honeyed fruits, candied citrus peels, toasty oak, and nuances of minerality. Full bodied, it is balanced with sweetness and acidity showcasing what a TRUE Sauternes should be. Drink between now and 2050 but you can easily cellar this for 50-100 years maybe even longer. Enjoy on its own or pair with Mediterranean dishes, Sushi, a Charcuterie board featuring blue cheeses or Comté, and any poultry dish.