Rare Bordeaux and Burgundy Wines Shine in Record-Breaking Christie’s Auction

The recent London-based auction by Christie’s highlighted a remarkable collection of rare Bordeaux and Burgundy wines from the Avery family’s historic cellar. The sale, which fetched nearly £2.57 million, saw a 100% sell-through rate, demonstrating continued interest in high-end, vintage wines despite recent industry fluctuations.

Highlights of the Auction

This unique event showcased some precious bottles, including a 12-bottle case of Petrus 1990 and a magnum of Château Latour 1961, setting a benchmark for vintage wine auctions.

The Legendary Petrus 1990

One of the crown jewels of the auction was a consignment of twelve bottles of Pomerol’s Petrus 1990, preserved in its original wooden case. This lot surpassed expectations by selling for £37,500 against a high estimate of £30,000. Known for its depth and remarkable aging potential, the Petrus 1990 remains a sought-after treasure among wine collectors.

Château Latour 1961: A Decanter Wine Legend

A single magnum of Château Latour 1961, hailed as one of the most prestigious French wines of the 20th century, fetched an astounding £25,000, far exceeding its pre-sale estimate of £6,000. The vintage is celebrated for its rich concentration and perfect balance, a testament to its enduring legacy despite the challenging growing conditions of that year.

Other Notable Bordeaux Sales

The auction also featured Bordeaux’s celebrated 1929 vintage. A magnum of Château Margaux 1929 sold for £9,375, significantly higher than its £1,800 high estimate. This reflects the vintage’s enduring appeal among connoisseurs and collectors.

Burgundy’s Historic Appeal

Burgundy wines from the 1940s also captured attention. Two bottles of Clos de Tart, Grand Cru 1945 sold for an impressive £43,750, far above the high estimate of £3,000. Additionally, a magnum of Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé, Musigny Grand Cru 1947 fetched £23,750, showing strong interest in these historical vintages.

Interest in Napa Valley Classics

Bottles of decades-old Napa Valley Cabernet were another highlight. Six-bottle lots of Heitz Cellar, Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1974 and Joseph Phelps, Insignia 1975 performed well, illustrating the demand for these iconic American wines. Each six-bottle lot of Heitz Cellar sold for £22,500, and three bottles of Inglenook’s 1955 Cabernet Sauvignon fetched £4,000.

Confidence in the Future of Wine Auctions

Noah May, the head of wine & spirits for Christie’s in EMEA, expressed optimism about the continued interest in rare wines. This auction, which included wines from the 19th and 20th centuries, underscores the enthusiasm and strong results expected from legendary bottles with impeccable provenance.

This record-breaking auction underscores the enduring appeal and investment potential of rare wines. Savvy collectors recognize the value of these exceptional bottles, which not only provide a taste of history but also a promising return on investment.