Michel Bettane and Thierry Desseauve: Varied soils and a clever use of resources have once again produced quite enough to go around! The 2008 edition of Yquem does not disappoint, and its secret is formal perfection, not extra volume on the palate. Perfectly integrated oak, perfectly balanced alcohol/acidity/syrup, perfect tactile sensations. The wine displays a finesse, aromatic purity, and charm that epitomize the very best of wine culture—a shining example of a great Sauternes for our times. 19

Michael Schuster: From a “normal” yield of 14hl/ha. Mid-gold; light, fine, oak-cedar-scented nose—scent, freshness, definition; a fine, rich, concentrated and taut wine in the typical linear style of the year. Intensely sweet, long, subtle, and beautifully sustained across the palate, with the sweetness underscored by minerality, and a constant inner energy from the combination of fine botrytis and racy acidity, finishing with a long, superbly botrytis-spiced aftertaste. A gentle, graceful, racily refined Yquem. Lovely! Accessible early; decades in prospect. 2012–40+. 18.5/19+