Château d’Yquem.

Château d’Yquem is the undisputed crown jewel of Sauternes, holding the unique distinction of being the only estate classified as a Premier Cru Supérieur. Perched on the highest hill in the appellation, this historic estate—once praised by Thomas Jefferson and now owned by LVMH—benefits from a distinct microclimate that coaxes the noble rot crucial for its legendary sweet wines. The winemaking here is notoriously uncompromising: grapes are harvested by hand berry by berry, and if a vintage falls short of perfection, it isn't released at all. Beyond the prized botrytised Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc blends, the estate produces "Y," a rare dry white. Visitors can book private, tailored tours that wind through the historic estate and offer a rare glimpse into this highly traditional world.