The British have had a long association with and fondness for old Bordeaux. Our love of history also makes us wonder what was happening while the grapes were being picked. These wines were created amid events that shaped the modern world:

In 1929, the Wall Street Crash silenced the roaring Twenties.

1931 saw the Empire State Building completed.

In 1941 the word ‘teenager’ was first used.

We all know what happened in the summer of 1945.   

In 1949 Wile E. Coyote first starred in “The Fast and Furry-ous” while the People’s Republic of China was formed.

In 1954 The Lord of the Rings and Elvis’ first single were released.

1961, Bordeaux produced a rather good vintage.

In 1965, they did not.  

And in 1969 Neil Armstrong took one small step.

Apart from us, there is nothing else that walks hand in hand with history more than wine.

This October, our auction of Fine Wine, Champagne, Vintage Port and Spirits offers a cellar that represents these and many other vintages from the 20^th century. It is a sensational collection which are all sourced from merchants from Europe and stored in the UK under Bond.

My highlights include a bottle of 1929 Chateau Latour a Pomerol, an antidote following the stunning but brutish port like 1928. The 1929 is the epitome of a perfect, elegant, beautifully balanced vintage. Another highlight includes a magnum of 1945 Chateau Talbot which must be one of the most exciting bottles on the market today. I think if I could try anything - it would be the 1961 Chateau Larcis Ducasse. An underappreciated vineyard that has the ability to make something very special - these must be the last four bottles in the world!

It is a wonderful opportunity to look back at the 20th century as it will not be long before these wines will vanish.

Auction Details

This is a live online auction with an auctioneer. The auction will take place on Wednesday 1 October (starting at 10.30am BST) at Dreweatts Newbury, but please note all wine and spirits are stored off-site at LCB Eton Park. Bidding is available online, by telephone, by commission bids or in person at Dreweatts. Please contact Dreweatts to register all commission bids or telephone bids by 12 noon BST the day before the sale.

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THINKING OF SELLING? 
Our specialists can provide valuations on single bottles and entire cellars, as well as advice on starting and maintaining your cellar. For further details or a free auction valuation, please contact: 

Dreweatts Wine Department
Mark Robertson | Violette Jongbloed | Emily Clarke
Direct tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 594
Main tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 553
E-mail: wine@dreweatts.com

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