d'Yquem Sauternes 1983 Bottle size: 6000ml

'Deep apricot colour. Exotic nose of dried tropical fruit – mango? Gorgeous, full bodied, delightfully middle aged, between youthful and embryonic and fully blown. Long and powerful though a a drying hint of dried apple peel on the finish. 20 and still a long way to go. (Tasted in April 2002)' - Jancis Robinson, Jancisrobinson.com, 20/20

‘The 1983 is among the most concentrated wines from this property over the last 20 years, with a staggering display of extract and a mind-boggling amount of glycerin. The vintage commenced early for Yquem, beginning on September 29 and finishing on November 18. Most observers feel the 1983 will mature more slowly than the 1986, and will last for almost 100 years. Given Yquem's unbelievable aging potential, such comments do not seem far fetched. At present, the 1983 is enormous, with huge, honeyed, pineapple, coconut, and caramel flavors, massive extract, and an unctuous quality barely framed by acidity and new oak. I do not feel the wine has changed since bottling, and I would not want to start drinking it for at least another 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050.’ (Tasted in 1998) – Robert M. Parker Jr., Wine Advocate, 96/100

'Tasted at “The Sampler” in London. The ’83 Yquem retains that Barsac-like bouquet with hints of barley sugar, quince, honey and a touch of marmalade. It has very fine definition and a greater sense of exuberance than hitherto encountered. The palate is very intense, superb vibrant acidity, great sense of tension with honey, marmalade, creme-brulee and apricots. This maybe the best Yquem ‘83 that I have tasted; the length extraordinary with an almost petrolly finish and yet it does not have the breeding of the ’89 or ’01. Drink now-2020+.' (Tasted December 2008) - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 94/100