Bordeaux first growth prices fall as investors turn to Burgundy

Published: 14 October, 2011

Bordeaux prices fell by 7.5% in quarter three, as buyers reject expensive 'hyped up' newer vintages and turn to other markets, according to trader of first growths, Bordeaux Index.

Bordeaux prices have softened, but it's market diversification, not a "bursting bubble", says managing director Gary Boom.

Boom adds that a correction was inevitable. "This summer we saw investor after investor simply refuse to buy at those price points, instead they're expanding their horizons and looking for a variety of different wines to purchase."

"It's important to remember this is one part of a much bigger market.

"Our turnover is up almost a third on last year in spite of buyers turning away from established favourites like Châteaux Lafite and instead seeking wines that are offering better value for money."

"Just because Lafite goes out of fashion doesn't mean it's a burst bubble. It just means that there's not the demand for that particular wine at the moment - and other wines are selling well."

Boom says the proof of the market's diversification can be found in a massive rise of sales for the rarest and most premium Burgundy wines, and the 'super seconds' Bordeaux wines.

"These wines are benefiting from renewed attention from Asia," said Gary Boom.

"Buyers from Singapore and China are definitely being more selective, with Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in particular is proving popular.

"We've seen a whole host of various DRC wines in all formats being snapped up like there's no tomorrow. If this level of demand continues, DRC may end up becoming 'the new Lafite' in China."

www.bordeauxindex.com

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