Are you interested in exploring the idea of collecting fine wine? There are many reasons to pursue this, and if you are enthusiastic about wine, with the passion to collect the most outstanding of vintages, then you are in the right place.
A substantial majority of collectors tend to lean toward the Bordeaux region, for its superb ability to age well with long drinkability value. Other valuable collection-worthy regions include Tuscany, Italy and Napa Valley, California.
Let’s review some of the superior wines from these regions that would make outstanding choices for your collection, followed by basic storage tips to keep your collection safe and in top condition.
Moncharm Bordeaux – France
Without question, the Bordeaux region of France is the most famous in the world, and rightfully so. This is undoubtedly a “go-to” place with which to begin your fine wine collection.
While in the United States, wines tend to be produced from a single grape variety, the Bordeaux wines are blends. Three grape varieties in a wine is typical, though one variety is dominant in most cases.
This Château Pavie 2003 is a masterful blend of Merlot (70%), Cabernet Franc (20%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%). Luxurious deep purple color, intoxicating aromas of blackberry, black cherries and balsamic, and a deeply rich treat for the palate. While perfectly enjoyable now, the tannic structure of this wine also makes it an excellent choice for at least a decade of storage.
Moncharm, Tuscany – Italy
Italy’s finest wine region is Tuscany - it is renowned for its vintage status, romantic history, and the superior indigenous and famous grape variety Sangiovese. The revered Sassicaia, Ornellaia and Tignanello Wineries are another reason this region is so famed and beloved.
This Solaia 2007 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), Sangiovese (20%), rounded out with Cabernet Franc. This standout vintage dark ruby wine is dense with black currants, tobacco and spice aromas. The flavors are full-bodied and rich, with an outstandingly long finish. Cellar time for this jewel will only improve this fine wine - all the way up to 2040.
Napa Valley – California
All the way across the globe from Europe, Napa Valley in California, U.S.A. is nevertheless one of the most famous wine regions in the world. It has the serendipity of having the perfect wine-making trifecta: a Mediterranean climate, an ideal geography, and geology that all come together to make the perfect grape.
This Screaming Eagle 2009 is young but with a mature quality. Perfumed nose with hints of eucalyptus, mint, spice and earth. Flavors of dark red berries, spice and rose notes, and a dense, multilayered palate. Very long finish, and can be stored for full enjoyment between 2017 - 2029.
Moncharm Storing Your Fine Wine
Temperature, light, and humidity are the three critical factors to keep in mind when storing your wine. The ideal range of temperature for storing red wine is 50-55ºF or 10-16ºC. You will want to keep humidity for wine storage in the range of 60-75% RH.
Investing in a good wine storage software system might be a good idea as well, since it can assist you in ensuring the ideal environment for your collection.
Also keep in mind the aging capability of your wines. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the wine, the longer the aging period. For example, premium Bordeaux wines are capable of long aging, while the less expensive wines (Zinfandels, table wines) are meant to be enjoyed immediately and do not age well.
Some wine collectors like to buy two of every bottle as they collect – so they can take notes on the first bottle to compare to later years.
Are you ready?
Starting a fine wine collection is an excellent pursuit. You can find many of the world’s finest in our wine shop. Please contact us should you have questions (or if you need assistance in your choices) – our experts respond promptly and will always be happy to assist you.
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