Oenophiles can look forward to rare wines from a private single owner collection going on auction this weekend. Some of the world’s finest wines from renowned domaines in Burgundy and the Rhône Valley will form part of the North/South Live Virtual Auction on 8 November 2020.
Over the last decade, the wines of Burgundy have grown in status to become the most sought after wines in the world. Strauss & Co offers twenty producers on sale including, Domaine Armand Rousseau, Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti – all of which are atop of the wine hierarchy. Produced from small parcels of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Burgundy wines date back to Roman times more than 15 centuries ago. It was during the middle ages however that the Cistercian Monks developed the complex terroir classification that has defined the famous region today. Over centuries, certain vineyards consistently produced greater wines than others, leading to the hallowed vineyards such as Chambertin, Echezeaux and Richebourg. Under the custodianship of the leading producers these wines are able to age for many decades and have reached the epitome of cult status.
The Rhône valley has a shorter history but is starting to command similar demand. We are delighted to include two legendary producers who, over the last half century, have become synonymous with the northern Rhône. Both Domaine Jamet and Augustus Clape are classically styled, historic producers that are considered of the greatest Syrah producers on the planet.
These wines are naturally released young, but often require a decade or more to show their pinnacle quality. Due to their small production, finding mature bottles can be extremely difficult and Strauss & Co is delighted to offer maturing wines that could be consumed now, or become part of an investment. Don’t miss this once-in-a-life-time opportunity to purchase the world’s best wines!
Roland shares his insights on how to secure some of the world’s most prestigious vintages.
Q: The upcoming November auction is set to follow a new format, please tell us more about this auction beyond borders?
A: The North South sale format is the new normal in wine auctions. The virtual live Strauss & Co auction offers the bidder to participate over the internet with just a click. The format is conducive to international bidders and we have seen a rise in their numbers. Combined with an incredible line-up of international wines, the auction will likely have wider traction.
Q: Fine wine is a more recent addition to the Strauss & Co auction portfolio, which was traditionally focused on art and collectables. Could you tell us a bit more about the integration of fine wine and how this has progressed?
A: Much like any new venture, we learned a lot in the first year and 2020 has progressed very well. Not only has the volume tripled, but prices are higher, and the offering is wider. Wine has become an important part of every Strauss & Co sale, with focused themes auctions and the finest curations.
Q: Please tell us a bit about your background Roland and how the addition of fine wine to the Strauss & Co auction portfolio came about?
A: Having worked in the international fine wine trade for 18 years, I have been lucky to taste most fine wines from around the world and travelled through the important wine regions. This gives context in recognising potential of South African wines, as well as the ability to assist in developing the secondary market.
Q: What are some of the benefits of buying fine wine on an online auction?
A: The online platform offers the easiest access for the bidder, no matter where you are. The online auctions are easier to curate, increasing liquidity and pricing information. This gives the bidder more information to make a better buying decision.
Q: We hear that you’re personally very excited about the wines on offer from this specific private single owner collection. As a true wine connoisseur, please tell us why?
A: This is arguably the greatest collection ever sold in South Africa, full stop! Twenty of the best, most sought after producers from Burgundy and the Rhône valley are on sale. Current vintages from these producers are rare, but vintage offers are even more so, especially in South Africa. This sale therefore offers a unique opportunity for South African and International buyers to purchase maturing bottles of the world’s finest wines!
Q: Are there any specific lots you’d like to highlight for this auction?
A: Domaine Jamet is close to my heart, having visited their Côte Rôtie domaine several times and followed their wines for the last 15 years. It is a traditional property in that little has changed over the decades, while the world of wine often reacts to new trends. The proprietor, Jean-Paul Jamet, is one of the remaining forefathers of the northern Rhône and he has made more than 40 vintages of Domaine Jamet!
Domaine Armand Rousseau is another favourite, with mind-blowing Pinot Noirs from the northern Côte de Nuits. Expect the demand for Chambertin, Clos de Bez and Clos St Jacques to be very high.
Q: Any tips on how to secure a lot you’ve set your heart on?
A: Do some research on availability and market price before the auction in order to make the best buying decision.
Q: How are wines stored and delivered to ensure optimum quality?
A: These gems were all bought though leading importers in South Africa and stored in a perfect, temperature-controlled cellar since release. We naturally have tasted some of the wines and are confident of optimum quality or investment or long-term cellaring.
The NORTH/SOUTH Live Virtual Auction takes place from 8-11 November 2020 and consist of 883 lots auctioned over 8 sessions.