Y Ygrec Sémillon-Sauvignon Blanc Blend

“Ygrec” is basically a flip of the standard d’Yquem; typically somewhere around 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon. Traditionally, this dry version has only made in select vintages and the vines for Ygrec are selected prior to harvest and vary from vintage to vintage, typically before nobel rot takes place.

Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of 90 minutes. The 2018 pours a bright straw color with medium viscosity. On the nose, the wine is developing powerful notes of grapefruit, orange, Juicy Fruit, some varnish, fine subtle baking spices and minerals. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long. An exciting Bordeaux Blanc that sizzles with energy and class. Absolutely baller stuff. Drink now through 2038.

The oldest vintage I’ve had of this wine. It’s so special when it has age. Its tertiary character made for a perfect match with black truffle risotto.

grassy and bright. Lime and mineralogy with sweetness and a touch of salinity. Needs time

strong Sauvignon gray note. Tropical edges (pineapple)- clean green fruit. Young and vibrant. Probably better with time.

lovely and fresh. Light green apple. Hint of corn. Harmonious. Great balance and texture

oily. Like, pear, apple, great notes. V pure

No doubt at this point in time, the Sauvignon Blanc is dominating. Intense, lemon and lime with above average acidity that makes this wine almost one dimensional at this point in time. Would love to revisit in a decade. My score reflects today with unlimited upside potential. 

There’s nothing like the excitement of head to head competition. Unfortunately, that excitement ends quickly when one of the participants has to withdraw. The 2013 was extremely advanced with a heavy petrol nose. The 2014 on the other hand was a great example of what this wine should be. A clean nose of grapefruit and grass but not in that overbearing way that can be the case with SB. Once in the mouth SB steps aside and the Semillon becomes the “boss”. Apricot and pears pop up and the initial dose of mouth watering acidity gives way to a wonderful roundness that allows for a long finish.

So aromatic

Comparison between 05 and 18. 05 is crushing it. Such a beauty showing that an oak-influenced Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon blend can be this good, rivals with those best whites in burgundy. If you buy newer vintages, please be patient. Wait till at least 10 years to open it!