You’ve got to be a real champagne lover if you’re willing to spend $57,000 on a single bottle of bubbly! And proving so is an unnamed buyer who recently spent the said amount on a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Champagne from the 1874 vintage. Yes, that’s right! The sale was conducted by Christie’s and is makes for the most expensive bottle of champagne that has ever been sold by the auction house. Surprisingly, the Perrier Jouët 1874 had also previously set a record when it was sold at Christie’s in 1888 as the most expensive champagne sold at auction at the time.
Commenting on the sale, Tim Triptree MW, international director for Christie’s Wine & Spirits Department, said, “Christie’s are delighted with the sale of Historic Vintages direct from Maison Perrier-Jouët with all of the lots selling.”
He further added, “In the London sale, we experienced competitive bidding resulting in impressive prices — particularly for the bottle of 1874 and magnums of 1979 Belle Époque, which doubled their high estimates. The whole collection performed above expectations, which is testament to the high reputation of the Maison and the demand for finest and rarest vintages of champagne with perfect provenance.”
Remarking similarly, Maison Perrier Jouët Cellar Master said: “I am very proud to see how Maison Perrier Jouët’s unique wine legacy has been recognized and celebrated by wine lovers at Christie’s. I am looking forward to meeting the buyer of the Perrier Jouët 1874 vintage in Epernay, France, where they will have the opportunity to continue this remarkable experience at the Maison Belle Epoque, the historic home of our founders.”
The aged champagne boasts a palate that includes butterscotch, caramel, and honey and was estimated to be sold for $20,000 initially. It will be presented to the anonymous buyer with the VIP Maison Perrier-Jouet Experience, including a guided tour of the winemaker’s house and cellars and a meal prepared by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Talk about a bubbly good time!
[Via: Food & Wine]
