I received a catalog for a Zachys auction on 9/19. Rather unusual: 288 lots, all from the estate of Jacqueline de Rothschild Piatigorsky (1911-2012). All the bottles have been in the possession of her or her heirs in Bordeaux since their release from the chateaux.
Of the 288 lots, over 180 are Chateau Lafite Rothschild, and the NEWEST vintage is 1942. The vast majority are pre-1921, with literally dozens from the 1800s (over 70 bottles of Lafite prior to 1900, going back to the 1860s). Lots of large formats.
Furthermore, ALL the bottles (with the exception of 29 lots of Latour) have been recorked and relabelled (the Latours were reconditioned but not relabelled), some for this auction and many previously by the chateaux. Every bottle is in a wooden case made for the auction. While there is a picture of every bottle in the catalog, they’re not very illuminating as all the labels and capsules are new, and the photographs are too dark to show ullages (which are noted of course).
Pretty rare collection; I don’t expect to participate but it may be fun to watch.
I remember reading through the catalog in 2019 and thinking: “these are going to be great pick ups!” I didn’t expect
most things to go for 2x the high estimate (and some much higher)
Zachys sent me an invite to attend the live auction. Too bad I’ve got to work that day and can’t attend. Used to go to a few of these per year before Covid. Always a blast at these auctions.
Friday, September 19th
The Pool, NYC
99 E 52nd Street
Zachys will be opening wines from Leflaive, Lafleur, Mouton Rothschild, Shafer, Haut-Brion, and more-please bring a similar wine (or two.) to share
over lunch.
RSVP required.
What’s the general feeling about the recorking? I recall there were some portion of wine collectors who thought that was worse than gambling on the original cork.
I’ll be going too. Certainly not bidding on any of the 19th century Lafite, but the “Fine and Rare” auction starting at 9am has some more attainable offerings.
Any other berserkers going? What are we all bringing?
Following this as well. Looks like the 1875 Giscours just hammered for $85k. I was expecting these lots to go for well about their estimate range but not over 20x.