2004 · Château d’Yquem

Château d’Yquem is the sole Premier Cru Supérieur estate in Sauternes, Bordeaux, with about 100 ha of vineyards planted primarily to Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc on sandy-gravel and clay soils. Since 1999 it has been owned by LVMH, with the historic Lur Saluces family retaining a small minority stake; Pierre Lurton serves as President. The estate produces 60,000–100,000 bottles annually of its iconic sweet wine, harvested by hand in multiple passes for noble rot. Yields are very low, around 8–10 hl/ha. While not certified organic or biodynamic, it follows LVMH sustainability guidelines and has advanced organic farming, including a 50 ha experimental biodynamic parcel with plans for full conversion. Oenologist Sandrine Garbay oversees the cellar. The estate is a member of SpiritsEUROPE and promotes responsible drinking.