Sotheby's Auction: The Epicurean’s Atlas Around the Globe

Abelson Editors -

Sotheby’s will host the highly anticipated live auction, The Epicurean’s Atlas: Around the Globe. This event is set to captivate wine connoisseurs worldwide, offering an extraordinary array of the finest wines sourced from prestigious producers across the globe.

This fourth chapter of The Epicurean’s Atlas promises to be a remarkable celebration of vinous excellence, showcasing rare and exceptional bottles that span continents.

Sotheby's The Epicurean's Atlas Catalogue Page 32

This remarkable event will see collectors and enthusiasts alike competing for a chance to own these extraordinary pieces of vinous history. Sotheby’s has meticulously curated a selection that includes everything from Burgundy’s crown jewels to rare bottles of Champagne and the iconic wines of Italy, making this auction a truly global experience. With estimates ranging from approachable bids to six-figure lots, it offers something for every serious collector.

Below, we explore some of the standout lots and provide practical information for those looking to participate.

Highlights of the Auction

LOT 18: Romanée Conti 2000, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (1 Methuselah)

The pinnacle of this sale, Lot 18, features a Methuselah of Romanée Conti 2000, one of the most revered wines in the world. Estimated at 180,000 - 240,000 USD, this 6-litre bottle comes from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Burgundy's most prestigious vineyard.

Romanée Conti 2000, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (1 Methuselah). Credit: Sotheby's

This Millennium vintage is a perfect representation of balance, showcasing ripe, fresh acidity, and immense complexity. Its tasting profile is described as opulent yet delicate, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. While the bottle shows signs of its age with some label wear and minor seepage, its provenance and rarity make it an essential addition to any serious wine collection

LOT 16: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, 1999 Assortment (12 Bottles)

Another star of the sale is Lot 16, featuring a collection of 12 bottles from the 1999 vintage of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, with an estimated value of 65,000 - 95,000 USD.

Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, 1999 Assortment (12 Bottles). Credit: Sotheby's

This lot includes a variety of Grand Crus: Romanée Conti, La Tâche, Richebourg, Romanée St. Vivant, Echézeaux, and Grands Echézeaux. All bottles are in pristine condition, with levels into the neck, further ensuring their quality. The 1999 vintage is highly regarded for its concentration and finesse, making this collection a highlight for Burgundy aficionados.

Lot 468: Amarone della Valpolicella, Classico Riserva 1995, Giuseppe Quintarelli (12 Bottles)

Moving away from Burgundy, Lot 458 highlights Italy’s finest with a 12-bottle case of Amarone della Valpolicella, Classico Riserva 1995, from Giuseppe Quintarelli. Estimated between 14,000 and 19,000 USD, this lot celebrates the mastery of one of Italy’s most renowned winemakers.

Quintarelli’s wines are synonymous with quality and have a cult following worldwide. The opportunity to acquire a full case with impeccable provenance is rare, and this lot is certain to attract significant interest from international buyers.

LOT 19: Romanée Conti 2005, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (1 Bottle)

For those seeking a more singular treasure, Lot 19 offers one bottle of the exceptional 2005 Romanée Conti.

Romanée Conti 2005, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. Credit: Sotheby's

With an estimate of 20,000 - 28,000 USD, this bottle represents a landmark vintage from Burgundy, renowned for its tight-knit structure and cassis-driven elegance. Its potential to age further ensures that this bottle will only improve with time, making it a wise investment for collectors looking for long-term appreciation.

Lot 293: Krug Clos d'Ambonnay 1996 (6 Bottles)

For Champagne enthusiasts, Lot 293 presents six bottles of Krug Clos d'Ambonnay 1996, with an estimate of 14,000 - 19,000 USD.

This rare Pinot Noir-driven vintage is known for its remarkable complexity and longevity. Described by critics as untamed and brimming with potential, the 1996 Krug will continue to evolve for decades to come, offering a multi-faceted tasting experience that only the finest Champagnes can deliver.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or an aspiring connoisseur, The Epicurean’s Atlas: Around the Globe offers a unique opportunity to acquire some of the most extraordinary wines ever produced. The carefully curated lots, along with Sotheby’s global expertise, ensure that this event will be remembered as a landmark in the world of fine wine auctions.

Don’t miss your chance to participate in this celebration of vinous artistry, where each bottle tells a story of tradition and passion.

Practical information

Date and Location

13th September 2024 at 10:00 AM EDT.
Sotheby’s New York, 1334 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021.

For those unable to attend in person, live online bidding will be available through Sotheby’s website.

How to bid

Sotheby’s offers multiple ways to participate in this auction:

  • In-Person: Attend the auction at Sotheby’s New York location.
  • Telephone Bidding: For those who prefer to bid by phone, requests must be submitted at least 24 hours before the sale. Contact the Bids Department at +1 212 606 7414 or via email at bids.newyork@sothebys.com.
  • Online Bidding: Register at least 24 hours before the auction at sothebys.com/wine to participate in live online bidding.

Contact Information

For further assistance or to learn more about the sale, Sotheby’s team is readily available:

Shipping and Delivery

In recognition of the international appeal of The Epicurean’s Atlas series, Sotheby’s is offering free consolidated sea shipment for all buyers to key global locations including Hong Kong, London, Singapore, Bordeaux, and Beaune in France, as well as New York.