Chateau d'Yquem 2001 750ml

You may ask: what is the point? Another perfect score for the 2001 d'Yquem. Oh well, why not? This bottle, served blind, reinforced the sheer unadulterated brilliance of this legendary Sauternes now at 15 years old. Doesn't time fly. It seems to be aging at a glacial pace, hardly changed since I last tasted it. The nose is like the throbbing engine of an Aston Martin Vantage, ready to go. It is so packed with intensity, perhaps a little more resinous than I recall, but with almost crystalline delineation. The palate is perfectly balanced and laden with botrytis, not as unctuous or as rich as say, the 2009 d'Yquem, yet with heavenly focus and a crescendo of flavors that take your breath away: acacia honey, yellow plum, white peach and orange sorbet. The startling things is ... this is just the opening act. Tasted September 2016. (100) NEAL MARTIN

There are 10,000 cases of this perfect sweet white Bordeaux. The 2001 Yquem reveals a hint of green in its light gold color. While somewhat reticent aromatically, with airing, it offers up honeyed tropical fruit, orange marmalade, pineapple, sweet creme brulee, and buttered nut-like scents. In the mouth, it is full-bodied with gorgeously refreshing acidity as well as massive concentration and unctuosity. Everything is uplifted and given laser-like focus by refreshing acidity. This large-scaled, youthful Yquem appears set to take its place among the most legendary vintages of the past, and will age effortlessly for 75+ years. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2100+. (100) ROBERT PARKER