Declining wine prices in the investment sector persist
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In the world of wine investment, the focus on premiumisation continues to dominate the market, with consumers and collectors increasingly drawn to higher-quality and rarer wines. This trend is particularly evident in the top 2% of wines, which account for 80% of trade value [3].
One region that has seen moderate appreciation in the U.S. market is Bordeaux. Premium Bordeaux wines, especially those in the $15–$30 and above $200 segments, are in high demand. Despite some volatility, they are not as sharply volatile as Burgundy or Champagne [1][2][3]. This trend was confirmed by Geraint Carter of Bordeaux Index and its LiveTrade online trading platform [4]. However, it's important to note that younger Bordeaux wines have seen steeper price declines due to an oversupply [4].
Champagne, on the other hand, experienced a significant rise during 2020–2022, driven by prestigious cuvées such as Dom Pérignon and Cristal. However, the Champagne 50 index has softened back close to January 2020 levels by mid-2025. This correction presents opportunities for collectors who missed earlier price surges while the category still shows modest to strong mid-year growth [3][5].
Burgundy, meanwhile, has undergone a very dramatic rally in prices, peaking higher than Champagne but also experiencing a more pronounced correction recently. Despite this volatility, Burgundy remains attractive due to the rarity and long-term collector appeal of top wines. Current prices may offer better long-term value, underpinned by its scarcity, which ensures its continued premium status even amid market adjustments [3].
Younger consumers are driving demand shifts, preferring imports and premium wines, and shaping the market's focus on quality and brand experience [2][4]. The U.S. market also shows strong growth for imported value wines in the $10–$20 range, notably from Spain and France, suggesting some mid-tier French wines may also be benefiting [1].
It's essential to remember that wine prices, like any investment, can go up as well as down. Moreover, the decline in wine prices may not apply to all regions or types of wine. For instance, on-premise (restaurants, bars) wine sales continue to struggle overall, down over 7%, except for sparkling wines like Champagne, which show resilience or modest growth [5].
Wine investment is unregulated in several markets, including the UK, so it's crucial to seek independent advice where necessary when considering wine investment.
For more insights and expert opinions, visit our website, where you'll find premium content such as "Expert's Choice: Frappato," "Wine investment: Has the market hit bottom?," "Wine investment: Top value Burgundy offers value in a downbeat market," and "Wine investment: Taking the pulse of Bordeaux 2024 en primeur." Additionally, don't miss our articles on "The Greek grape varieties you should be drinking," "Albariño beyond Spain: The next great white grape?," "Languedoc under the lens: Vintages and voices from a region in flux," and "The hidden wine gems of the Italian coast."
Lastly, mark your calendars for the "Fine Wine Encounter London," a two-day event returning in 2025.
[1] [Magazine Name], August 2025 Issue [2] Wine Spectator, 2025 [3] Decanter, 2025 [4] Bordeaux Index, 2025 [5] Wine Business, 2025
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