One could argue that the legendary 1982 Bordeaux vintage laid the foundations for the market today. Rising from the doldrums of the 1970’s, this abundant and historic year established the careers of critic Robert Parker and consultant Michel Rolland, both dramatically changing the course of the industry and becoming arguably the most influential individuals in Bordeaux of the last 40 years.  

Merchants with Ferraris and football clubs, immaculate vineyards, breath-taking new wineries and uniformed staff greeting you on golf buggies all evolved from the 1982 vintage.

Even with the perfect weather, the quality was inconsistent. This was a time of no green harvesting or fancy machines and when Chateaux owners referred to themselves as “Farmers” without everyone around raising an amused cynical eyebrow. Pomerol and St Emilion were not the celebrated regions we know today, they certainly had a few superstars, but it was many of the great Medoc Chateaux that proved beyond doubt their lofty titles and produced some of the greatest wines on record and continue to be. 

It is with great pleasure we announce we are to sell an important private collection on 27 September, which includes cases of 1982 Mouton Rothschild, Lafite Rothschild, Haut Brion, Lafleur, Trotanoy, Cheval Blanc and Petrus.

With the exception of 1982 Lafleur, I have been fortunate enough to drink these wines. All lived up to their deserved reputations, but it is the Mouton Rothschild which I would appoint ambassador of the vintage.

The collection encompasses many other landmark French wines from 1959 onwards, including an abundance of vintage Champagne - all previously laid down in an immaculate cellar from an important house in Oxfordshire. Only the space here limits my exuberance. It is a privilege for Dreweatts to be given the opportunity to offer them and we urge you to cast a keen eye over the sale.

For further insightful views as they recently taste some of the Bordeaux 1982 vintage, please do click on link here and listen to acclaimed MW's and former guest editors of our newsletter Peter Richards and Susie Barrie on their Podcast Wine Blast.

Auction Details

This is a live online auction with an auctioneer.  The auction will take place on Wednesday 27 September (starting at 10.30am BST) at our sister auction company – Forum Auctions, but please note all wine and spirits are stored off-site at LCB Eton Park.  

Forum Auctions
4 Ingate Place
London SW8 3NS

www.forumauctions.co.uk 

Bidding is available online, by telephone or by commission bids through Dreweatts, or in person at Forum Auctions.  Please contact Dreweatts to register all commission bids or telephone bids by 12 noon BST the day before the auction.

For a guide to bidding in a Live Online Auction, click here.  

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