The fine wine market saw a robust week of trading, with Tuscany emerging as a standout performer.
The region’s trade value surged to 12.9%, a significant increase from 8.3% last week and well above the January average of 10.6%. The charge was led by Sassicaia 2020, which remained the most actively traded Tuscan wine. The wine last changed hands at GBP 1,632 per case (USD 2,076 or EUR 164.3 per bottle), underscoring sustained global demand for Super Tuscans.
Bordeaux: A Tale of Two Vintages
Bordeaux maintained its position as the dominant force in the fine wine market, holding a 34.0% trade share. The region displayed a contrasting dynamic between its 2019 and 2021 vintages:
- 2021 was the most traded Bordeaux vintage by volume, with increasing transactions in First Growths. However, these wines were trading at significant discounts compared to their ex-château release prices. For instance, Château Margaux 2021 has seen notable price adjustments.
- 2019, by contrast, led in trade value. Wines from this vintage have been trading 4.8% above their ex-négociant release price, signaling strong market confidence in the vintage’s long-term potential.
- The 2021 vintage, on average, traded at 13.6% below ex-négociant release price but held 3.8% above ex-château levels, reflecting cautious optimism among buyers.
Champagne Rises, Burgundy Holds Firm
Champagne also made significant gains this week, securing an 18.1% trade share, just behind Burgundy at 20.8%. Among the most traded labels was Dom Pérignon 2013, which experienced a rebound in activity following a quieter period. The vintage was the top-traded Champagne by both value and volume, last trading at GBP 1,300 per case (USD 1,676 or EUR 129.1 per bottle).
As the fine wine market navigates a shifting landscape, Tuscany’s strong performance, Bordeaux’s contrasting vintage trends, and Champagne’s steady rise highlight the evolving nature of collector and investor preferences.
Source: Liv-ex