2010 d'Yquem, Sauternes (375ml)

Exquisite. Intense, richly layered, apricot with spices and acacia honey, dried pear and quince, and a remarkable citrus profile.

This displays an understated golden hue in the glass, not really hinting at the joy waiting to be found within. Aromatically it displays a fine figure, despite the evident richness of the aromatics, with honey and butterscotch, dried and caramelised fruits, and a touch of acacia, it maintains a very vigorous presence. Polished and dense on the palate, freshly textured, this feels compact and impressive. It opens into a brilliant midpalate which introduces a sense of energy, minerality and acidity to the composition, laid over a bed of sweet caramelised apricot and orange fruit. With its notes of powdered chalk and acid drive this is clearly youthful, with impressive vigour. An excellent showing and a vintage with decades of cellaring potential ahead of it. Hold for now.