Liquid Gold, part 1 — a visit to Château d'Yquem
The illustrious history, the famous fans, the personal invitation! A highlight of my recent trip to Bordeaux was a visit to Château d'Yquem , recognized as one of the most superior fine wines in the world. They graciously opened their cellar doors (and bottles) for me, and it took days for me to stop smiling. The grounds are as spectacular as you’d expect – with its fairytale castle, parts of which date back over 500 years, its lush gardens, and its impeccably cared for vineyards. And its story is equally spectacular. During the Middle Ages, Château d'Yquem was owned by the King of England before passing into French hands, and finally, luxury goods conglomerate LVMH. Château d'Yquem's unique microclimate (its vineyards are at the highest point in Sauternes), famed terroir (clay and gravel over deep limestone), exceptionally low yields (all hand-picked), delicate botrytis (that magical noble rot) and meticulous winemaking ensure a qual