Hello, wine nerds.
The auction market tends to cool off a bit at this time of year. It's simply tougher to get consignors to focus on selling wine during the lazy days of summer. And, of course, collectors are so conditioned to heat = bad, that the idea of transporting one's precious bottles, even in a refrigerated truck, is enough to give most potential sellers pause.
That said, the most recent auctions have seen some price increases across the board, and not just for the rare stuff. So, as long as there are interesting wines to bid on (that's what I'm here for) July and August can offer a unique intersection of lowered demand in a generally upward market: that’s opportunity.
P.S. if you like what I’m putting out here, and want unrestricted access, please consider upgrading.
Zachys
July 24
On July 24, Zachys is holding a sort of mini-auction, with a low estimate of around $700k. The main consignment, which they've named "Great Lakes," is your usual who's who of rare wines, but there are a few gems lurking. I'm particularly looking at lots 208 - 214, a section of single-bottles lots of Champagne. Lots like this previously wouldn't have made their way into a live-auctioneered auction, but with the houses looking to move more and more wine to DE we've been seeing moves like this. Lot 209, Bouchard Inflorescence Blanc de Noirs, is one of those wines that's only going to be harder to find. Lot 213, Dom Ruinart 1996 is an overlooked 1996 and a much better deal than the other Dom. Lot 214 is a bit of an oddball -- a mag of 1995 Dagueneau Pur Sang from the era when Didier was making the wine, prior to his tragic plane crash. These wines aren't for everyone but they're unique, and something that should be in every cellar.
I also can't speak highly enough of Lots 224-225-- CVNE from the '60s. Wine professionals have been saying it for decades, but to this day no one has caught on: old Spanish wine is one of the great values in rare wine.
Acker
now-July 19
Acker doesn't have a NY auction until September 12, but their online sale ending on July 19 has a few interesting items. Or, if you don't get to it in time, they'll likely roll over into next week so just check back. Lot 7208 begins a 10-lot parcel of 6-packs of 2023 Duroche Gevrey Champeaux. It's young, but this is one you'll want to hold on to and that's only going to go up in price, so I'd snag it now at $1300/6. I'd also bid on 10483 which is 12 bottles of 2008 Hanzell Sebella Chardonnay and 13598 to 13600, which is El Molino Chardonnay. In fact, throw in 20460 and 20463, mixed lots of older Ridge. I'm not crazy, I promise-- these wines have surprised me over and over with how ageworthy and complex they are despite the price.
HDH's next auction is August 27-28, and Sotheby's September 3 so look for that in the next post.
As always, reply with a lot number if you’re considering bidding. I’ll tell you what I think.
Cheers,
-The Gavel God
