What is En Primeur?

En Primeur, also known as wine futures, is a purchasing method where buyers can secure wines while they are still in the barrel. The concept was first introduced in Bordeaux in the 18th century as a way for wine merchants to secure their supply of wine for the coming year. This process allows consumers to invest in a wine before it is bottled and released to the market, often at a price lower than the retail price.

Does buying En Primeur work?

When you buy wine via En Primeur, you are essentially buying the wine before it is bottled. The process typically involves:

1. Tasting: Every year in April wine professionals taste the latest vintage directly from the barrel and provide scores for us to review
2. Offers: Following the tastings, châteaux release their wines for sale through the Place de Bordeaux and then allocations are distributed to retailers like The World of Wine
3. Purchasing: Buyers place orders for the wines, paying upfront.
4. Ageing: The wines continue to age in the barrel for another 1-2 years.
5. Delivery: Once bottled, the wines are shipped directly from the producer to your cellar, typically 2 years later in September.

When is Bordeaux En Primeur?

Bordeaux En Primeur typically starts in May and finishes at the beginning of July.

Benefits of Buying En Primeur

• Cost Savings: Buying wine futures can be more cost-effective than waiting for the wines to be bottled and released. In some cases, the En Primeur price may be significantly lower than the eventual retail price.
• Access to Rare Wines: Some Bordeaux wines are produced in limited quantities and may be difficult to find once they reach the market. En Primeur allows buyers to secure their desired wines before they are sold out.
• Investment Potential: If a wine’s quality and demand are high, its value may appreciate over time. Purchasing En Primeur can provide an opportunity for buyers to invest in wines that may yield a return in the future.
• Provenance assurance: Provenance assurance: When purchasing En Primeur, buyers can be confident in the wine’s provenance, as it comes directly from the château and has not been subject to potential mishandling or fraud.

Our Tips for Choosing the Best Wines in En Primeur

• Personal Wine Broker: Provide them an insight to your budget and style preferences
• Follow reputable critics: Renowned wine critics can provide valuable insight into the quality of a particular vintage or wine. Keep an eye on their assessments, scores, and tasting notes to gain a better understanding
• Diversify your portfolio: Like any investment, it is wise to diversify your En Primeur portfolio. Spread your purchases across various appellations and Chateau
• Trusted merchants: Partner with reputable wine merchants and négociants who have established relationships with the châteaux and can provide guidance and advice on your purchases

How are Prices Determined for En Primeur Wines?

The pricing of En Primeur wines in Bordeaux is determined by the châteaux. The prices are based on a number of factors, including the quality of the vintage, the reputation of the châteaux, and the demand for the wine. The prices are typically released in May and June, several weeks after the En Primeur tastings.

En Primeur prices are typically lower than the final retail price after bottling, making it an attractive option for wine lovers and collectors who want to secure their allocation of highly sought-after wines at a lower price.

What is included in En Primeur prices?

The prices we quote include all Australian Taxes such as GST, WET and Duty. The wines are insured from Bordeaux to Australia. Standard shipping costs apply for our Bordeaux En Primeur orders.

We will provide our customers the option to purchase Bordeaux En Primeur and have the wines stored in bond.

Can I purchase and store my wines in Bond?

Yes, we can provide this option for you. Your purchase will be without your local taxes and delivery will be to a Bonded warehouse. Discuss this further with your personal wine broker.

Register your interest in advance for Bordeaux En Primeur sales@theworldofwine.com.au