- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
RP
96
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 1983 is among the most concentrated wines from this property over the last 20 years, with a staggering display of extract and a mind-boggling amount of glycerin. The vintage commenced early for Yquem, beginning on September 29 and finishing on November 18. Most observers feel the 1983 will mature more slowly than the 1986, and will last for almost 100 years. Given Yquem's unbelievable aging potential, such comments do not seem far fetched. At present, the 1983 is enormous, with huge, honeyed, pineapple, coconut, and caramel flavors, massive extract, and an unctuous quality barely framed by acidity and new oak. I do not feel the wine has changed since bottling, and I would not want to start drinking it for at least another 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050. Last tasted, 12/90. Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr., Issue date: January 1998, Drinking window: 2005 - 2050.
1983 Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, France
Spring was cool and wet, followed by very hot weather in August and then a month virtually without rain in autumn. The beautiful weather meant that the harvest started on the 29th of September and lasted until the 19th of November. The juice was excellent. 1983 is among the greatest vintages of Yquem.