Primeur wines: buy Bordeaux and Burgundy grands crus online
Primeur wines are arousing real enthusiasm among wine lovers and collectors. These nectars from the latest harvest offer a unique opportunity to acquire prestigious vintages before they are bottled. We invite you to delve into the attractive world of primeur wines, by studying the subtleties of this market and the reasons for its growing appeal.
Primeur wines: a unique concept in the wine world
Primeur wines represent a tradition rooted in the French wine landscape, particularly in Bordeaux and Burgundy . These are wines from the latest harvest, offered for sale before they are even bottled and aged in barrels. This practice, a true institution in the world of wine , allows wine lovers to anticipate the purchase of prestigious vintages.
The primeur campaign, a highly anticipated annual event, generally begins in the spring following the harvest. For the 2023 vintage, for example, it should begin at the end of April 2024. This is an opportunity for châteaux to present their wines to professionals and the specialist press, thus creating a real buzz around the quality of the vintage .
As wine-growers, we particularly appreciate this period which allows us to discover in preview the future great wines. It is a privileged moment to exchange with the winegrowers and understand the specificities of each vintage.
Why choose to buy wines en primeur?
Buying wines en primeur has several advantages which explain its growing appeal among oenophiles:
- Privileged access to prestigious and rare vintages
- Often advantageous prices compared to the official release
- Possibility of anticipating the quality of a vintage
- Speculative aspect, some wines increasing in value over time
The pre-order system with a deposit payment upon reservation allows enthusiasts to secure the acquisition of highly sought-after bottles. Delivery generally occurs 18 to 24 months after the harvest, once the aging process is complete. This wait is an integral part of the pleasure associated with buying en primeur.
It should be noted that buying en primeur involves a certain amount of risk . Consequently, the final quality of the wine can sometimes differ from the first tastings. This is why we strongly recommend seeking advice from a professional to guide your choices.
The 2023 vintage: an extraordinary year for primeur wines
The 2023 vintage looks particularly promising for Bordeaux wines, despite sometimes difficult weather conditions. Bordeaux châteaux have had to face particular challenges this year , particularly due to the heatwave, hail and mildew which have impacted yields.
Despite these hazards, the quality of the grapes harvested suggests an exceptional vintage . The limited quantities should however translate into high prices for the 2023 futures. This rarity only increases the interest of collectors and investors for this unique vintage.
Here is an overview of the features expected for the 2023 vintage:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Quality | Exceptional, concentrated |
| Quantity | Limited due to weather conditions |
| Price | Raised, reflecting rarity and quality |
| Storage potential | important, wines intended for aging |
As passionate sommeliers, we are eager to discover these wines that promise to be memorable. The tasting of the primeurs is always an exhilarating moment, where we try to detect the future potential of these young wines.
The big names in primeur wines
The most sought-after primeur wines often come from the grands crus classés or premier crus of Bordeaux . Prestigious châteaux such as Lafite Rothschild, Mouton Rothschild, Margaux or Haut-Brion are essential references in the primeur campaign. Their reputation and the consistent quality of their wines make them safe bets for wine lovers and investors.
It should be noted that other wine regions, such as Burgundy, also practice en primeur sales. Nevertheless, Bordeaux remains the reference in this area, with a well-established system and worldwide reputation.
Ratings from influential critics play a vital role in determining prices and demand for en primeur wines. These assessments, based on early tastings, often guide buyers’ choices and can have a significant impact on the future value of the wines.
For lovers of more accessible primeur wines, one should not overlook the interest of primeur wines such as Beaujolais Nouveau , which offer a unique and immediate taste experience.
Investing in primeur wines: opportunities and precautions
Buying en primeur wines can be considered an investment, with some vintages increasing significantly in value over time. However, this approach requires a good knowledge of the market and a certain amount of patience. Here are some points to consider for those considering investing in en primeur wines:
- Select reputable chateaux with a stable performance history
- Diversify your purchases to spread the risks
- Consider critics' ratings, but don't rely on them exclusively
- Provide suitable storage to preserve the quality of the wines
- Be prepared to store wines for several years to optimize their value potential
As enthusiasts who have travelled to many vineyards, we can only emphasise the importance of a thoughtful and informed approach. Investing in primeur wines must above all be guided by a love of wine and an understanding of its subtleties.
En primeur wines represent a fascinating facet of the wine world, combining tradition, anticipation and sometimes speculation. Whether acquiring bottles for your personal cellar or for investment purposes, buying en primeur offers a unique experience. The 2023 vintage, despite the challenges encountered, promises to be exceptional and will not fail to arouse the interest of wine lovers around the world. Let's stay tuned for the first tastings and upcoming offers to seize the best opportunities of this vintage which promises to be memorable.
