The oldest bottle of wine ever sold was a 1774 Vercel “Vin Jaune d'Arbois” that fetched an impressive $120,800 at a Christie's auction in May 2018. This remarkable wine had been stored in an underground cellar in the charming town of Arbois, situated near the majestic Jura Mountains in eastern France. It is truly fascinating to delve into the intriguing history and value of such a rare and ancient bottle of wine.
The 1774 Vercel “Vin Jaune d'Arbois” holds immense significance as it represents a piece of viticultural heritage that has withstood the test of time. This particular wine hails from the region of Arbois, which is famous for its production of Vin Jaune, a unique style of yellow wine that undergoes an extended aging process. The wine is made from the Savagnin grape variety and is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of six years and three months, resulting in a distinct and complex flavor profile.
Vin Jaune, translated as “yellow wine,” owes its name to its characteristic golden hue, which develops over the years of aging. This style of wine is produced using a traditional winemaking technique known as the “ouillage” method, where the barrels are not topped up to allow for the formation of a layer of yeast known as the “voile.” This veil of yeast protects the wine from oxidation, giving it its unique flavor and aroma.
The 1774 Vercel “Vin Jaune d'Arbois” represents not only the extraordinary craftsmanship of winemakers from centuries ago but also the historical context in which it was produced. In 1774, France was on the brink of revolution, with King Louis XVI ascending to the throne. The bottle itself is a relic of the past, evoking images of a bygone era and the stories it holds within its aged glass.
The value of the oldest bottle of wine goes beyond the mere price tag attached to it. It is a testament to the passion and dedication of winemakers who have nurtured the vines, carefully harvested the grapes, and patiently aged the wine to perfection. It is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and tradition that surrounds winemaking, transcending time and connecting us to the past.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting and experiencing some truly exceptional wines. While I have not had the pleasure of sampling the 1774 Vercel “Vin Jaune d'Arbois” personally, I can imagine the anticipation and excitement that would accompany such a rare and historic bottle. The opportunity to taste a wine that has aged for over two centuries would be an extraordinary experience, allowing me to connect with the history of winemaking and appreciate the craftsmanship involved.
The oldest bottle of wine, the 1774 Vercel “Vin Jaune d'Arbois,” holds both historical and cultural significance. Its value extends beyond its monetary worth, representing the artistry and tradition of winemaking. While the price it fetched at auction is undoubtedly substantial, the true value lies in the stories it tells and the connection it provides to the past.