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What to expect from the 2024 La Place de Bordeaux campaign?

Post author By Desislava Lyapova
Post date September 3, 2024
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La Place de Bordeaux’s autumn campaign continues to expand, with new entries from Germany, France and the rest of the world.
The network offers producers logistics expertise and knowledge of the world’s fine wine markets.
Some of the top brands that enjoy sustained demand every year include Californian cult wines Opus One and Promontory, and the Super Tuscans Solaia and Masseto.

Following a mixed 2023 Bordeaux En Primeur campaign, which saw many châteaux lowering their prices compared to last year, this autumn will see the annual hors Bordeaux La Place campaign.

As the market for Bordeaux narrows, the system, originally designed purely to sell the wines from the region, continues to expand. However, it’s essential to recognise the challenges that lie ahead.

Current market sentiment

The fine wine market is currently navigating through a period of uncertainty. Economic downturns in key markets like China, where Bordeaux sales have plummeted by two-thirds since their peak in 2017, and the looming threat of a recession in the US, have created a cautious environment. This has significantly impacted confidence in the market, with many stakeholders bracing for a potentially attritional campaign this autumn.

Continued expansion of La Place de Bordeaux

For new producers, the benefits of joining the La Place distribution network are manifold. As Areni put it in a recent article, ‘La Place offers fine wine producers something remarkable: a depth and breadth of fine wine expertise, coupled with a fine-grained knowledge of the world’s fine wine markets and plenty of logistics expertise. La Place also offers prestige, making it highly attractive to many of the world’s fine wine producers’.

According to Mathieu Chadronnier, president of Bordeaux négociant CVBG, ‘We will see more wines from beyond Bordeaux come to La Place. That trend is not going anywhere because the fundamental rationale that fine wine is one single category that embraces regions and countries of origin remains.’

This shift is particularly significant in light of the current market conditions. As Bordeaux faces challenges, the inclusion of international wines has become more crucial, providing a broader range of offerings and catering to an increasingly global market.

New entries on La Place

Ernst Loosen, the renowned Mosel-based producer, is entering La Place for the first time this year with a limited-production wine, Weingut Dr. Loosen, Zach. Bergweiler-Prüm Erben.

Meanwhile, Rheingau Riesling producer Schloss Johannisberg is advancing its strategy to expand the global reach of its premium Rieslings. This autumn, they will introduce Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Goldlack and Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Orangelack Kabinett to a broader international audience using the network’s global reach.

Additionally, Maison Georges Vigouroux will release the first Malbec from Cahors – Château de Haute-Serre Grand Malbec 2022 – through La Place de Bordeaux. This marks the first global ‘icon’ wine from the appellation since phylloxera nearly eradicated the grape variety in France almost 200 years ago.

Top brands to watch

The coming weeks will see the release of the latest vintage from some of the hottest brands, including the Super Tuscans Solaia, Masseto and Bibi Graetz, Californian cult wine Opus One joined by estates such as Inglenook, Joseph Phelps and Promontory, the Chilean Almaviva, Viñedo Chadwick and Viña Seña.

From Australia, Wynns will release the 2021 John Riddoch, Cloudburst its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Malbec 2021, Jim Barry ‘The Armagh’ Shiraz 2021, and Penfolds Bin 169 2022.

France will also see the release of the 2022 vintage of Le Petit Cheval Blanc, Y de Yquem and Château de Beaucastel Hommage à Jacques Perrin, Philipponnat Clos des Goisses 2015, and Latour 2009.

The table below shows the performance and price points of some of the top brands released via La Place de Bordeaux every autumn.

Long-term prospects

Although prices for all these brands have fallen in the last year – creating the so called ‘buyer’s market’ – they remain great long term investments. Moreover, the new releases enjoy sustained demand year after year.

The current downturn in the market presents an opportunity for change. This period of uncertainty has led to more informed decision-making, a focus on quality, and a more selective approach to the new releases.

The 2024 La Place de Bordeaux campaign is set to be a dynamic and expansive event, showcasing a diverse array of global wines alongside the region’s traditional offerings. Despite the current challenges, the long-term prospects for La Place are promising, with the potential for significant growth and continued evolution in the years to come.

WineCap’s independent market analysis showcases the value of portfolio diversification and the stability offered by investing in wine. Speak to one of our wine investment experts and start building your portfolio. Schedule your free consultation today.

Tags alternative assets, Bordeaux, California, campaign, Fine Wine, La Place, new releases, wine brands, Wine Investment

News

Spanish wines: a growing investment opportunity

Post author By Emma
Post date August 27, 2024
No Comments on Spanish wines: a growing investment opportunity

Demand for Spanish wines has surged, with the region’s trade by volume outpacing the USA.
More Spanish wines are now offered on La Place since after Telmo Rodríguez’s ‘YJAR’ paved the way in 2021.
Marqués de Murrieta’s Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva is Spain’s top performer in the last decade.

Spanish wines are increasingly gaining recognition in the fine wine investment landscape. Liv-ex recently reported that Spain’s year-to-date trade share by value has more than doubled compared to the same period in 2023 (2.2% vs 0.9%). In volume terms, the country has traded 20.5% more than the US – but at lower average trade prices.

As we wrote in a recent member-only offer, Spanish wine represents some of the best value in the fine wine market and remains an underexploited sector by investors.

The surging demand for Spanish wines

Spain has a long and diverse history on the wine investment market, masked under a low trade share. Given the current buyer’s market, however, with investors looking for value, Spain is keenly poised for growth.

Earlier this month, its trade share by value overtook the Rhône, which prompted Liv-ex to monitor its performance separately from the Rest of the World category, in which it previously belonged.

In terms of regional distribution, Ribera del Duero and Rioja dominate the investment market for Spanish wines, being home to some of the most successful wine brands.

More Spanish wines are now also offered through La Place de Bordeaux, after Telmo Rodríguez’s ‘YJAR’ paved the way in 2021, such as De La Riva, Algueira and Matallana.

Spain’s top wine labels for investment

Spain’s most established wines for investment are Vega-Sicilia Unico, Valbuena and Alion, Pingus and Flor de Pingus, Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva, La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 and 890, and López de Heredia Viña Tondonia.

When it comes to price performance, Ygay Gran Reserva leads the way, with a 207.7% rise over the past decade. One of the region’s brightest stars, the brand benefitted from Wine Spectator’s recognition as ‘Wine of the Year’ in 2020. Since then, prices have risen sharply.

The second-best performer has been La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904, up 151.8%. Meanwhile, Vega-Sicilia’s wines have been slower and steadier, increasing between 50%-65% over the last ten years. They offer some of the best value from Spain today.

As the fine wine market continues to expand and diversify, Spain has all the fundamentals for future success.

Tags best performing wines, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, invest in wine, investment, performance, price performance, spain region, spain wine, spanish wine, value, Wine as an investment, Wine Investment, wine market

News

The state of the fine wine market so far in 2024

Post author By Emma
Post date August 14, 2024
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Fine wine remains a buyer’s market in 2024.
Burgundy prices have fallen the most, while Italy has been the most resilient region.
Some wines have outperformed the market, such as L’Église-Clinet 2012.

The fine wine market remains a buyer’s market in 2024. All fine wine regions have experienced declines, with prices for Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne falling the most.

Still, some wine brands have outperformed the market by far – such as Henri Boillot Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru, which is up 23% since the beginning of the year.

Regional wine performance so far in 2024

The fine wine market’s downturn has continued into 2024. The broadest measure of the market, the Liv-ex 1000 index, is down 4.9% year-to-date. Within it, Burgundy (-7.0%) and the Rest of the World (-4.8%) sub-indices have fallen the most.

The Champagne 50 index is also down 4.5%. However, the index rose 0.9% last month, buoyed by Dom Pérignon 2006 and 2012, Louis Roederer Cristal Rosé 2008 and various vintages of Pol Roger’s Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill.

As we have previously explored, Italy has been the most resilient fine wine region, down 2.3% year-to-date. Its performance has been stabilised by brands from Piedmont, specifically Barolo and Barbaresco.

The Rhône 100 index, which has been the perennial underperformer over the long term, has also experienced lesser declines this year, falling just 3.2%. Outside the Liv-ex 1000 index, the California 50 is down 3.8%.

The biggest risers this year

Despite broader market uncertainties, some brands have risen by close to 30% in value since the beginning of the year (as of August 1st).

With an average case price of £720, Delas Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes Blanc is up 26% this year. It has been followed by a high-profile Burgundy – Henri Boillot Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru, which has risen 23%.

The most expensive wine on the rankings, Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair La Romanée Grand Cru, has enjoyed an 11% rise.

The best performing wines

When it comes to the best performing individual wines, Bordeaux leads the way with L’Église-Clinet 2012, up an impressive 38%. It has been followed by Cheval Blanc 1998, up 27%.

Another top Bordeaux comes fourth – Gruaud Larose 2018 (19%). Sweet Bordeaux also features in the table with two vintages from Suduiraut, 2019 and 2010, and Climens 2015.

Meanwhile, Champagne’s best performer is the ‘gorgeous’ (AG 98 points) Krug 2004, up 26%.

While the fine wine market has continued to face declines across most regions in 2024, presenting great opportunities for lower-than-average prices, some wines have shown remarkable resilience. Even in a buyer’s market, excellence prevails.

For more on the state of the fine wine market, read our latest quarterly report.

Tags alternative assets, best performing wines, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, Global fine wine market, investment, market, market environment, market trends, performance, price performance, value, wealth managers, wine, Wine as an investment, Wine Investment, wine market

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The growing importance of sustainability in fine wine investment

Post author By Emma
Post date July 25, 2024
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Sustainability is a major factor influencing investor decisions in the UK.
Fine wine producers are embracing sustainable viticulture techniques aimed at reducing their carbon footprint and making a social impact.
Fine wine is a forward-thinking sustainable investment choice.

Sustainability is a major factor influencing investor decisions in the UK. Fine wine producers are increasingly embracing sustainable viticulture techniques aimed at reducing their carbon footprint, making fine wine a forward-thinking investment choice.

The evolving landscape of fine wine investment

In recent years, the landscape of fine wine investment has undergone significant changes. Beyond the traditional allure of rarity and prestige, a new motivation is influencing investor decisions in the UK: sustainability.

This shift reflects a broader global trend where environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are increasingly shaping investment strategies across various asset classes, including fine wine. Investors are now looking at the environmental impact of their investments, and fine wine is emerging as a preferred choice for those who prioritise sustainability.

UK investors prioritise sustainability

Historically, investing in fine wine has mostly been driven by passion, financial gains, and the status of owning rare vintages from a select few vineyards.

However, as society becomes more conscious of sustainability issues, there has been increased global demand for sustainable and impactful investing. Fine wine is ideally positioned to benefit from this shift.

Recent research conducted for our 2024 UK Wealth Report found that sustainability has emerged as the most important factor influencing the preferences of both seasoned and novice investors in the fine wine market.

Our 2023 survey found that 56% of investors are attracted to fine wine because it is a sustainable asset class with a low carbon footprint. In 2024, this positive investor sentiment towards fine wine has increased in the UK, with 68% of the survey respondents citing sustainability as their top motivation to invest in fine wine.

UK investors increasingly recognise the benefits of ethical alignment, accessibility, and financial viability that fine wine brings as an asset.

The benefits of sustainable investing

One of the most compelling selling points of fine wine investment lies in its low-carbon benefits. Many fine wine producers are embracing sustainable viticulture techniques aimed at reducing carbon footprints, as outlined in our Fine Wine Sustainability Report.

Vineyards leading the charge are implementing methods to preserve old vines, adapt to climate change, mitigate environmental impact, and promote biodiversity. These sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also enhance the quality and longevity of the wine, making it an even more attractive investment.

The expanding appeal of sustainable investing is expected to grow, driven by environmentally conscious investors seeking resilient assets that offer both financial security and ethical value. This trend not only enhances the market appeal of fine wine but also reinforces its status as a forward-thinking investment choice.

A deeper dive into the changing fine wine investment attitudes

For those interested in exploring this trend further, WineCap’s 2024 Wealth Report offers an in-depth look into the top motivations for investing in fine wine, the trends shaping the landscape in the UK, and investor sentiment.

This comprehensive report provides valuable insights for both current and prospective investors, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in the fine wine market.

Download a complimentary copy of WineCap’s 2024 Wealth Report to gain a deeper understanding of this evolving market and the role of sustainability in shaping its future.

Tags alternative investment, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, market, sustainability, UK investment, uk report, UK wine investment, Wine as an investment, Wine Investment, wine market

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The best of Dom Pérignon: top vintages and investment opportunities

Post author By Emma
Post date July 2, 2024
No Comments on The best of Dom Pérignon: top vintages and investment opportunities

Dom Pérignon is one of the most popular wine brands in the world, resonating with drinkers, collectors and investors.
This week saw the latest Dom Pérignon vintage release – the 2015.
Dom Pérignon prices have risen on average 90% in the last decade.

Dom Pérignon is one of the most popular wine brands in the world. It consistently ranks in Wine-Searcher’s top five most searched-for wines, and its label resonates with drinkers, collectors and investors alike.

Latest vintage release: Dom Pérignon 2015

This week saw the latest vintage release from the renowned Champagne house – Dom Pérignon 2015, with a recommended retail price of £1,750 per 12×75 case. The wine boasts 96 points from Antonio Galloni (Vinous) who said that it ‘shows terrific energy’ and ‘is a fine showing in a vintage that has proven to be tricky’.

Brief history of Dom Pérignon

Dom Pérignon is named after a Benedictine monk, Dom Pierre Pérignon (1638–1715). As a cellar master at the Abbey of Hautvillers in the Champagne region of France, he significantly contributed to the quality and production methods of Champagne, such as blending grapes from different vineyards and improving clarity. Moët & Chandon introduced the Dom Pérignon brand as its prestige cuvée in the 20th century, with the first vintage released in 1921. Since then, the wine has become synonymous with luxury and celebration.

Dom Pérignon investment performance

Dom Pérignon has been one of the most popular Champagne brands for investment for a reason. On average, prices have risen 90% over the last decade. The Dom Pérignon index hit an all-time high in November 2022 (up 136% since June 2014). Prices have since come off their peak making now an opportune time to buy, given the overall upward trend.

The average Dom Pérignon price per case is £2,260, making it more affordable than other popular investment-grade Champagnes like Krug, Louis Roederer Cristal, Pol Roger Sir Winston Churchill, Bollinger RD and Philipponnat Clos des Goisses, all the while providing similar returns.

The highest-scoring Dom Pérignon vintages

The highest-scoring Dom Pérignon vintage from Galloni is the 2008 (98+), which he describes as ‘magnificent’ and a ‘Champagne that plays in three dimensions’.

The 2004 (‘one of my favourite Dom Pérignons’) and 2002 (‘speaks to opulence and intensity’) boast 98-points from the critic. Up next with 97-points is 2012, which he called ‘a dynamic Champagne endowed with tremendous character’, and the ‘beautifully balanced, harmonious’ 2006.

From Wine Advocate, the top-scoring Dom Pérignon vintages include 1996 (98 pts), 1961 (97 pts), and several vintages scoring 96 points, such as 2008, 2002, 2006, 1976, 1990, 1982, and 2012.

The best value Dom Pérignon on the market today

The 2004 and 2012 Dom Pérignon vintages are two of the most popular, not least because they offer great value in the context of other vintages. They are two of the most affordable on the market today, while also boasting high scores. The 2004 further benefits from additional time in bottle; however, these earlier vintages are often harder to source than the new releases.

Regardless of the vintage of choice, and whether for investment or collecting, Dom Pérignon remains the pinnacle of the Champagne world. Its strong branding, outstanding quality and investment performance make it a top choice for wine enthusiasts and investors alike.

Tags alternative assets, Alternative Investments, and investment opportunities in our comprehensive guide., champagne investment, Dom Perignon, Explore Dom Pérignon's top vintages, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, investment, investment opportunities, investment opportunity, rich history, vintage, Wine as an investment, Wine Investment, wine market

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The best of Bordeaux En Primeur 2023

Post author By Emma
Post date June 19, 2024
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The best Bordeaux En Primeur releases offered a combination of quality and value.
These are wines with high potential for future price appreciation.
Some châteaux have followed the En Primeur golden rule that the new release is the cheapest you can get.

As this year’s Bordeaux En Primeur campaign draws to an end, we evaluate the best 2023 releases. These wines not only boast high quality, as measured by critic scores, but also offer value when compared to previous vintages. Below are our highlights from an investment perspective.

Beychevelle

In the words of Château Beychevelle’s Philippe Blanc, ‘our golden rule is the En Primeur price is the cheapest you can get’.

The rule was observed this year, with the 2023 representing the best priced vintage on the market today.

The wine received 94-96 points from Antonio Galloni (Vinous), who said: ‘Beychevelle remains one of the most distinctive wines in all of Bordeaux. It is especially classy in this edition.’

Meanwhile, the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley (93-94 points) noted that ‘the 2023 Beychevelle has turned out especially well this year, exhibiting a more integrated, seductive style than recent vintages’.

Lafite Rothschild & Carruades de Lafite

For William Kelley, Lafite Rothschild appeared to be ‘the finest of the first growths this year’. The critic awarded it 97-99 points. The wine was launched at an impressive 32% discount on last year, making the new release the most affordable on the market today. Shortly after release, the wine found its way into the secondary market.

Its second wine also presented an enticing prospect to investors. As well as being the cheapest vintage, the wine was awarded a score of 91-93 from Neal Martin (Vinous), surpassing the 2022, 2016, and 2010. The critic remarked that this is ‘surely one of the best Carruades I have tasted at this stage’.

Mouton Rothschild & Petit Mouton

In much the same vein as Lafite Rothschild, the 2023 Mouton Rothschild is the most affordable vintage available on the market today. Antonio Galloni gave it 96-99 points and declared that it ‘is shaping up to be one of the best wines of the vintage on the Left Bank’.

With 96-98 points from Neal Martin, its score looks set to match the 2022, 2020, 2019, and 2018. Only the 100-point 2016 has the upper hand but comes at a hefty 40% premium.

Once again, there is outstanding value to be found in the second wine. Petit Mouton 2023 is the best priced vintage available today by a healthy margin. And, according to Galloni, ‘it could easy be a Grand Vin at another address’.

Margaux

The highest-scoring Bordeaux 2023 wine across major critics, Margaux presented great value.

Galloni awarded it a potentially perfect score of 97-100 points, calling it ‘fabulous, sensual, silky and exceptionally polished’.

Meanwhile, Martin described it as a ‘quintessential Margaux’, awarding it a score of 97-99 points.

Cheval Blanc

There are few wines that transcend the vintage in 2023, and Cheval Blanc is certainly one of them.

There were few wines capable of transcending the vintage in 2023, but Cheval Blanc was certainly one of them.

It is the second-highest-scoring Bordeaux 2023 wine across 12 leading critics. Winemaker Pierre-Olivier Clouet even goes so far as to say that it is superior to the 2022, as does the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley.

Adding to its appeal is the value it offers. The 2023 is the most affordable option among top vintages. This is one of only two unambiguously ‘prime’ Cheval Blanc vintages available under £5,000 a case.

As these highlights show, there is value to be found during En Primeur with the right analysis tools.

Tags alternative assets, alternative investment, Alternative Investments, Bordeaux, Bordeaux 2023, Bordeaux En Primeur, En Primeur, Fine Wine, Fine wine market, Lafite Rothschild, Margaux, Mouton Rothschild, Wine as an investment, Wine Investment, wine market

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Piedmont on the move: rising stars under £1,000 a case

Post author By Emma
Post date June 11, 2024
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Italy is the best-performing fine wine region year-to-date.
Some Italian brands have recorded positive movement as high as 15% in the last six months.
Piedmont’s edge in the fine wine market can be attributed to historical significance, limited production, and an increase in global appreciation.

Amid economic fluctuations and changing market trends, the wine investment landscape has seen varied performances across regions. However, Italy, and particularly the Piedmont, has stood out for its robustness and resilience, outperforming other regions in maintaining and even enhancing its investment appeal.

Italy’s performance in a bearish market

The Liv-ex Italy 100 sub-index, which tracks the price performance of the top 100 Italian wines, has shown resilience in the current bearish market. While the broader Liv-ex 1000 index, representing a wider range of global wines, has experienced a decline of 5.2% year-to-date, the Italy 100 sub-index has seen a relatively minor decrease of 1.7%.

This indicates a sustained interest in Italian wines, despite broader market uncertainties. Some Italian brands have even recorded positive movement in the last six months as high as 15%.

The rising stars of Piedmont

A significant contribution to this trend comes from the Piedmont, specifically Barolo and Barbaresco.

Produttori del Barbaresco, a renowned cooperative known for its high-quality production, has seen impressive gains across a range of its wines. The Rabaja Riserva has risen 15% since the start of the year. The wine has an average case price of £968 per 12×75, and a Wine Track critic score of 94 points.

From the same producer, the more affordable Ovello Riserva is up 9%, while the Montestefano Riserva is up 8%.

From Barolo, Cascina Fontana has shown consistent returns. It has appreciated 6% in the last six months and a remarkable 105% over the last decade. The wine’s affordability at £665 average price per case makes it a value-driven choice for investors.

Meanwhile, Elio Grasso’s Barolo Gavarini Chiniera has increased 4% in the past six months and an impressive 110% in the last decade.

Why Italy, and why now?

The resilience of the Italian wine market, particularly in premium segments like Barolo and Barbaresco, can be attributed to several factors such as historical significance, quality, limited production, and growing global appreciation for the value on offer.

Wines from Piedmont are steeped in history and are globally recognised for their quality and complexity, attracting both connoisseurs and investors.

The limited production and exclusivity of certain labels ensure their demand remains high, even in less favourable economic conditions. While these wines are highly sought-after, the brands above continue to offer value – all being under £1,000 a case despite recent gains.

Finally, Italian wines continue to see growing appreciation in key markets such as the UK, USA and Asia, broadening the investor base.

As we navigate through fluctuating markets, Italy, especially Piedmont, holds firm, demonstrating potential for growth. For investors, Barolo and Barbaresco represent stability, quality, and a legacy that stands resilient against the tides of economic change.

Tags alternative asset, alternative assets, alternative investment, Alternative Investments, best performing wines, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine investment for beginners, Fine wine market, Italian wine, Italian wines, Italy

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WineCap’s Head of Content named in Harpers Wine & Spirit 30 under 30

Post author By Emma
Post date May 21, 2024
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Harper's Wine and Spirit 30 under 30 2024

Harpers Wine & Spirit‘s prestigious 30 under 30 list has been unveiled, showcasing the top talents in the UK wine trade. We are delighted to announce that our Head of Content, Desislava Lyapova, has been included in the rankings.

The publication received over 100 nominations, ‘with each prospective star deserving recognition’ for their leadership, commitment, communication, innovation, and sustainability initiatives. Jo Gilbert of Harpers noted the industry’s challenges, highlighting the importance of the passion and talent that the nominees bring to their roles.

The judging panel is comprised of esteemed industry figures such as Katy Keating (Flint Wines), Kim Wilson (North South Wines), Michael Saunders (Coterie Holdings), Miles Beale (WSTA), Rachel Webster (WSET), Regine Lee MW (Indigo Wine), and Jo Gilbert (Harpers Wine & Spirit). To make the shortlist, the judges convened over two days in separate groups, with scores averaged out.

Desislava Lyapova stood out as the only wine investment specialist on this year’s list. During her tenure at WineCap, Lyapova has significantly boosted subscriber numbers through her PR efforts and comprehensive research reports, including those focusing on wealth management in the UK and US.

On the announcement, Alexander Westgarth, CEO of WineCap, congratulated Lyapova on her achievement:

‘I want to give a huge congratulations to all the winners of the Harpers Wine & Spirit 30 under 30, especially our very own Desislava Lyapova.

Desi has made a transformational impact at WineCap over the past two years. I can’t imagine anyone else who could have helped us achieve what she has. We are extremely proud to have Desi as a key member of our team.’

Before joining WineCap, Lyapova honed her skills as a Senior Writer at Liv-ex, the global marketplace for the wine trade. At WineCap, she has been pivotal in shaping the editorial direction, producing our Quarterly and Regional reports, leading En Primeur campaigns, and managing freelance and in-house teams, all the while enriching the content of the Academy and News sections.

Tags 30 under 30, alternative investment, Fine Wine, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, Wine as an investment, wine market

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Bordeaux 2023 En Primeur: an overview of the current campaign

Post author By Emma
Post date May 16, 2024
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Three weeks into the Bordeaux 2023 En Primeur campaign, we examine the pricing trends of the releases so far.
In many cases, the current price cuts have highlighted the steady ascent of En Primeur release pricing in recent years.
The Bordeaux 2023 vintage is characterised by diverse critic scores and some high achievers.

This year’s Bordeaux En Primeur campaign kicked off early and rapidly gained momentum. The first 2023 releases landed in the last week of April, shortly after trade professionals had returned from the region and before the publication of most critic reports.

Pricing, as always, remained a central issue. Questions arose about whether châteaux would consider the current market conditions, whether anticipated price reductions would drive interest, and ultimately, whether the Bordeaux 2023 vintage would prove a worthy investment.

Three weeks into the campaign, several major châteaux, including First Growths like Haut-Brion, Mouton Rothschild, and Lafite Rothschild, have already launched their 2023 wines.

With most critic assessments now available and pricing trends becoming clearer, we delve into the details of the campaign so far.

Noteworthy releases

Château Léoville-Las Cases’ 2023 release marked a promising start to this year’s En Primeur. On April 30th, the wine was offered at a 40% discount on the previous year’s release. However, some older vintages still presented better value.

The first ‘great value’ release came from Château Lafite Rothschild in the same week. Its second wine, Carruades de Lafite, represented the lowest priced offering from the estate on the market today, playing on En Primeur’s original premise.

Similarly, Mouton Rothschild and Petit Mouton presented attractive opportunities for investors, released at 34.6% and 25.1% discounts on last year’s offerings respectively.

As a result, Liv-ex reported that both Château Lafite Rothschild 2023 and Château Mouton Rothschild 2023 have made their way onto the secondary market – although they have traded below their original release prices.

In many cases, the current price cuts have highlighted the steady ascent of En Primeur release pricing in recent years.

The average price cuts so far have been 21.5% compared to last year, with reductions ranging from 40% to none. Despite these cuts, many older vintages remain more affordable and often boast similar or better ratings, including those from 2019, 2017, and 2014.

Diverse scores and high achievers

The Bordeaux 2023 vintage has received a wide array of scores from leading critics, demonstrating a spectrum of quality across various appellations and estates.

Château Margaux consistently received high acclaim, with scores of 97-100 from both Antonio Galloni and William Kelley, and 99-100 from James Suckling. Neal Martin rated it as his second- highest wine of the vintage.

Another high achiever, Le Pin, received top marks with a perfect 100 from Peter Moser of Falstaff and 99-100 from Suckling. Château Montrose is also noteworthy, with a barrel range of 97-100 from Kelley and 99-100 from Suckling.

The critical consensus indicates a preference for wines from the Left Bank, which are noted to have fared better overall. The vintage is characterised by wines that lean towards a classic style, marked by their freshness and moderate alcohol content.

Despite the mixed nature of the vintage, there are several standout wines that show considerable promise. These wines are not only great for adding to a collection due to their potential to appreciate in value, but they also offer the kind of quality that makes them worth seeking out for those looking to enjoy fine wines in the years to come.

Tags Bordeaux 2023, Bordeaux En Primeur, En Primeur campaign, fine wine investment, Fine wine market, Global fine wine market, vintage, vintages, wine critic

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Jeb Dunnuck on Bordeaux 2023 En Primeur

Post author By Emma
Post date May 9, 2024
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According to Jeb Dunnuck, ‘2023 is a good to very good, but not a great year for Bordeaux’.
He described most wines as ‘ripe yet not massive with more focused, linear profiles on the palate’.
Château Montrose received his highest barrel range of 97-100 points.

According to Jeb Dunnuck, ‘2023 is a good to very good, but not a great year for Bordeaux’. In his latest report, the critic delves into the growing season that shaped the vintage, comparisons with previous years, the En Primeur tastings and the current market for buying the new releases. Below we summarise his key findings.

A heterogeneous vintage

An erratic growing season led to a divergence of styles between sub-regions and even neighbouring châteaux. Bordeaux 2023 witnessed ‘an incredibly successful flowering, huge mildew pressure in the spring, a slightly uninspiring summer that lacked sunlight, sporadic and very localised storms, and a heatwave at the end of August and September that sped up ripening and, according to many, saved the vintage’.

In terms of vintage comparisons, ‘some of the wines have a certain 2019-like sunny, easygoing style, while others can have a cooler, more structured, almost austere profile similar to 2020’. The common themes, according to the critic, are the ‘fully ripe aromatics and more focused, linear profiles on the palate’.

A Left Bank vintage?

Jeb Dunnuck pointed out that ‘at a high level, the Merlot is much riper and more opulent, and the Cabernets are slightly fresher and vibrant’. He suggested that the Left Bank had the upper hand in 2023, saying that ‘while there are unquestionably impressive wines from the Right Bank, the top Médoc and Graves seem to have another level of harmony and overall balance’.

In terms of overall quality and style, Dunnuck argued that Bordeaux 2023 ‘surpasses 2014, 2017, and 2021 yet is a solid step back from the incredible trio of 2018 through 2020, and most likely will be surpassed by 2022 as well’.

Jeb Dunnuck’s favourite Bordeaux 2023 wines

Dunnuck found potential for perfection in three wines, awarding a barrel range of up to 100 points. Château Montrose got his highest score (97-100), and he noted that ‘it has some similarities to the 2010 (or 2016?) and might end up being the wine of the vintage’.

Among the First Growths, only Château Margaux came close to perfection, with the critic saying that ‘it is clearly one of the greats in the vintage, and it actually reminds me a touch of the 1996, if not better’.

Regarding the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion, Dunnuck remarked that ‘the overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage’.

Should you buy Bordeaux 2023 En Primeur?

Dunnuck outlines four main reasons why you should buy a vintage En Primeur: ‘1) If it is a great vintage; 2) If the wines are expected to increase in price; 3) If quantities are limited; and 4) If you are buying wines in formats other than 750-milliliter bottles’.

He defined 2023 as a ‘a borderline case’. While ‘it’s not a truly great vintage […] there are a handful of gems in the vintage that will rival the best from 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2020,’ the critic said.

In terms of pricing, he observed that it seemed to ‘be coming back to 2019 levels’, still he reckoned that ‘the time of substantial early gains from purchasing En Primeur has largely sailed’.

Our En Primeur offers only highlight wines that present great value for money in the context of the market prices for vintages currently available on the market. These are wines that hold significant potential for future price appreciation, and where the scores match the price.

Tags Bordeaux 2023, critic scores, En Primeur, Fine Wine, Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Investment

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