Chateau d'Yquem

Château d’Yquem is a name you’ll often hear when people talk about Sauternes. The castle has stood for centuries, but the wines still surprise. Sweet powerhouses that can easily outlive a generation.

Château d’Yquem winery in Sauternes

The estate lies in the heart of Sauternes, just south of Bordeaux. On a hilltop, overlooking the vineyards, with a castle that looks as striking as the wines taste. In total, the property covers around 125 hectares. About 90 hectares are dedicated to vines, while the rest is woodland, gardens, and a courtyard with its iconic towers.

History of Château d’Yquem

The story of Yquem goes back to the 15th century. In 1785, the estate came into the hands of the Lur-Saluces family through marriage. For generations it remained under their care until luxury group LVMH acquired the majority stake in 1996. The estate’s reputation was sealed in 1855 when Yquem was the only Sauternes classified as Premier Cru Supérieur — a title it still holds exclusively today.

Vineyards and grape varieties of d’Yquem

Yquem’s vineyards cover around 102 hectares. Plantings are roughly 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. This blend is key to the wine’s rich, layered style. Harvesting here is unlike anywhere else: only grapes touched by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) are handpicked. Pickers often pass through the same rows multiple times to select just the right clusters. The yields are tiny, averaging only 9 hectoliters per hectare, but the concentration in the wine is unmatched.

Climate in Sauternes

The microclimate of Sauternes is essential. Nearby rivers create morning mists in autumn, while afternoons are warm and sunny. These alternating conditions allow noble rot to develop. Without this natural balance of humidity and sunshine, the unique style of Yquem would not exist.

Interesting facts about Château d’Yquem

• Yquem is the only Sauternes with Premier Cru Supérieur status from the 1855 classification.
• Since 1959 the estate has also produced a dry white wine: “Y” or “Ygrec”. Since 2004 it has been made every vintage.
• The harvest is so selective that up to 140 pickers are needed to comb through the vineyards in several passes.
• A bottle of Yquem can age for more than a century under proper storage, constantly evolving in complexity.

Château d’Yquem wine online?

At Grandcruwijnen, the wines of Château d’Yquem are stored in a fully conditioned Wine Warehouse, ensuring perfect preservation. When ordering online, you can choose between home delivery or collection in Dordrecht. Pick up your order and you’ll receive an extra discount — automatically shown when you select ‘Afhalen’ at checkout.