The Hospices de Beaune auction, founded in 1859, is one of Burgundy’s most celebrated wine events and the commercial part of the Trois Glorioises. It is held annually on the third Sunday in November. Its origins trace back to the 15th century when the Hospices, then a hospital in Beaune, received land and vineyards as donations to support its work. Over centuries, the estate grew throuh further vineyard donations, eventually comprising over 60 hectares of prestigious vineyards across Burgundy, with much of the land classified as premier and some grand cru. Proceeds from the auction support medical and social causes in the region, as well as the preservation of the Hospices’ historic sites.
We were in Burgundy over the weekend in 2022 with the Confrerie de Chevalier de Tastevin Singapore and one of our members decided to buy a barrel. It was so much fun and excitement to attend the 162nd auction, conducted by Sotheby’s. The engergy with 600 bidders in the room is incredible, especially since the 2022 auction broke all previous records with heightened global demand. Strong interest from international buyers, particularly from North America and Asia, pushed prices to new highs, with 800+ barrels for sale there was also decent quantity. The centerpiece, the “Pièce des Présidents” – a unique barrel offered every year – fetched an whopping 800k EUR. The buyers were a consortium of the big Negoce such as Drouhin, Jadot, etc. My Confrerie friend acquired a barrel of “Volnay 1er Cru Santenots Cuvée Jehan de Massol” for 24’000 EUR. For one barrel you will get 288 bottles with your name as “acquereur” on the label.
The success of the Hospice auction reflected Burgundy’s strong reputation and a growing interest in the charitable aspect of the event, reinforcing its status as a pinnacle for wine collectors and philanthropists alike.
Author: Christian Raubach, WSET III, FWS, WSG Champagne Master
November 2022