The 1921 Yquem probably has the best backstory of any wine that I have tasted, this glass purloined from the decanter being served to pop star Madonna at the adjacent table in the salad days of my career. I had to rustle back in the original Wine-Journal archives for my tasting note. Botrytis came after 38mm of rain on 1 September following a severe summer drought. Potential alcohol levels apparently ranged from 14% to 30%. Refulgent deep golden in colour, the nose bursts forth with pure honey, orange peel, crème brûlée and quince (actually, not a million miles away from the 1967). Incredibly youthful and full of vitality, this 1921 possesses incredible intensity, its richness counterbalanced by a killer line of acidity. Just a sip is sufficient to leave you in awe of this magical wine. Tasted at Mirabelle restaurant in London in November, 2000. (NM)