Is it really worth buying wine before it’s even bottled? The Bordeaux en primeur system is as intriguing as it is fascinating. Every year, wine enthusiasts and investors place orders for bottles that are still aging in the cellar.
The goal is simple: to get early access to fine wines at a potentially better price. But between opportunity and risk, en primeur wine remains a complex topic. What is en primeur wine? Why buy it? How can you avoid the most common mistakes?
What is a Bordeaux en primeur?
A primeur wine is a wine purchased while it is still aging. In practical terms, you pay for a wine today that you will receive, on average, two years from now.
The origins of the early produce system
This system is unique to Bordeaux wines. In particular, it allows châteaux to finance their production quickly, without having to wait for the wines to be sold. Industry professionals taste the wines a few months after the harvest. Prices are then set, and allocations are made.
Difference from a traditional wine
A classic wine is sold ready to drink or for aging. In contrast, en primeur wine is not yet finished. This means: some uncertainty, a waiting period, and the potential for appreciation
The cycle of en primeur wine
- Grape Harvest
- Winemaking
- Barrel aging
- En Primeur Sale
- Bottling
- Delivery (2 years later)
Why buy wines en primeur?
Access rare wines
Some fine wines are hard to find once they hit the market. Buying en primeur allows you to secure bottles as soon as they’re released.
Take advantage of a potentially good deal
Historically, en primeur wines were less expensive. Today, that’s no longer always the case, but there are still some good deals to be found.
Investing in wine
En primeur wine also attracts investors. Some wines appreciate in value over time. A concrete example: A successful purchase of a good vintage can yield a significant return on investment. But the opposite is also true.
Comparison table
| Criteria | Young wine | Bottled wine |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Sometimes lower | Stable or higher |
| Risk | High | Low |
| Availability | Limited | Large |
| Deadline | Long | Immediate |
The Risks of En Primeur Wines
Buying wine en primeur is not a risk-free investment. It involves several uncertainties that you need to fully understand before making a purchase.
Quality still uncertain
Wines tasted en primeur are still aging and have not yet reached their final profile. Between the tasting and bottling, many factors change, such as barrel aging, final blends, and the length of maturation. A promising wine may therefore disappoint or, conversely, pleasantly surprise. This element of uncertainty nevertheless remains a real risk for the buyer.
A financial investment
Buying en primeur means paying today for a wine that will be delivered later. Your money is typically tied up for 18 to 24 months. This type of purchase requires a long-term perspective and a certain amount of patience.
How do I buy wines en primeur?
Many specialized websites offer en primeur wines. The main advantage lies in the selection and the ability to easily compare prices. However, it’s important to be cautious by verifying the website’s reliability, delivery terms, and the sometimes significant price differences for the same wine. For the first time in 20 years, 1jour1vin is offering Bordeaux wines en primeur, leveraging its parent company’s direct connections with the estates through the wine merchant Borie-Manoux, a renowned and historic family-owned firm based in Bordeaux.
Frequently Asked Questions About En Primeur Wines
What is a wine sold en primeur?
A wine purchased before bottling, while it is still aging.
When will I receive my wine?
About 18 to 24 months after purchase.
Are all Bordeaux wines sold en primeur?
No, only certain domains use this system.
Conclusion
Buying en primeur in Bordeaux is an attractive but demanding opportunity. It offers access to great wines and sometimes the chance to make a profit, but it also involves risks, time, and expertise. The key is simple: buy with a systematic approach, patience, and discernment.
