d'Yquem 1986 (750ML)

98 Points, Robert M. Parker, Jr., Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "There is no other wine in the world like it, and there is no other luxury wine that can possibly justify its price as much as Yquem. The remarkable amount of painstaking labor necessary to produce the nectar known as Yquem is almost impossible to comprehend. This is a fascinating effort. With greater evidence of botrytis than the colossal 1983, but less power and alcohol, the 1986 Yquem tastes reminiscent of the 1975, only more precocious, as well as more concentrated. Several highly respected Bordeaux negociants who are Yquem enthusiasts claim the 1986 Yquem is the greatest wine produced at the property since the legendary 1937. Its enthralling bouquet of pineapples, sauteed hazelnuts, vanillin, and ripe apricots is breathtaking. Compellingly concentrated, the breadth as well as depth of flavor seemingly know no limits. This full-bodied, powerful, yet impeccably balanced Yquem should provide memorable drinking for 40-55 more years. Like the 1983, this is another winemaking tour de force. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2040." 12/97

18.5 Points, Jancis Robinson, JancisRobinson.com: "Served blind – but we knew that the donor has the biggest soft spot for Sauternes in general and Yquem in particular. Bright orange. Edgy and fresh with real vivacity and a hint of orange-peel flavour and texture. Quite light on the finish. Round fruit that managed to be both bitter and rich. Quite a triumph! I'm amazed to see that we already have four tasting notes on this gorgeous, still very lively, wine. (JR) (Drink between 2002-2037)" 03/25