The United States only has commercial wine auctions in Illinois and California with New York attempting to get bills passed so that they can join the wine auction arena. As of yet, however, New York has seen little success. As a result, people come from all over, converging on Chicago to get in on the best bargains. In Britain, wine auctions are also quite popular and are held throughout the country during the fall and winter months. There are also retail wine chains that have flourished. In addition, one change has even expanded and bought up a wine retailer on the American West Coast.
The British wine Trade sees the wine auctions as a way of stimulating interest in wines generally and increases sales for everybody. Of course, in Australia, you will find plenty of wine auctions, especially online. There are large online wine communities who share tasting notes and critiques amongst themselves, such as the Auswine discussion forum. You do not even need to leave the comfort of your armchair to enjoy the benefits of an online wine auction.
Bidding and Tasting Tips when Attending a Wine Auction
Before you set out in the real world or online, plan out the items you want to bid on and the amount you are willing to pay. Research previous wine auctions to get a good idea of prices so your maximum bids will be fair and stand you in stead to win. Always try and attend the pre-auction tasting, sometimes end of line mixed cases can be a superb buy, keep an eye open for that. The trade bidders are not so interested in those.
Another idea that is very good includes attending a wine warehouse tasting to see what brands are out there. Then you will gain a better appreciation for what you are bidding for instead of simply taking a wine at label value. You can also form a collective of your colleagues and friends to buy in groups further reducing your per bottle costs and increase the variety you can purchase.
With online wine auctions, it is best to work out your preferences on paper first, so that you can get acquainted with the procedure. If you are going after California wines or just any wine sales you can get at a bargain, you will want to know that going in. Write down you bids for your preferred lots and the maximum amount you are willing to pay. Avoid bidding until you are sure what is going on and when you feel confident. If you are attending a wine tasting session, make sure that you have a designated driver to avoid any untimely accidents.
As you can see, wine auctions are about having fun and the bargains you can make, not the perceived social status achieved from attending an event. Represented for well-known, international venues, most auctions are good for everyday people. A representative from a renowned auction house recently commented on the state of wine auctions today. “I think online wine auctions are still in their infancy.” Wine sales and auctions are an excellent opportunity not to be missed.
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