A remarkable offering is soon to grace the auction block: a comprehensive collection featuring forty consecutive vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon from the esteemed Napa Valley producer, Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery. This extraordinary ensemble, comprising every vintage ever crafted by the estate since its inaugural 1982 release, underscores the winery's enduring legacy and commitment to viticulture. Slated for sale by Christie's America, the collection represents a rare opportunity for connoisseurs to acquire a piece of viticultural history, with an estimated value that reflects its unique character and provenance. Furthermore, the sale carries a philanthropic dimension, as a portion of the proceeds will be directed towards a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable practices within the wine industry, highlighting the estate's dedication to environmental stewardship.
The upcoming auction, part of Christie's 'Fine & Rare Wines Online: LA Edition' sale, will feature this exceptional lot from Spottswoode Estate, a producer with roots stretching back to 1972 when the Novak family acquired the property. The estate has long been a pioneer in organic farming, initiating such practices in 1985, and achieving Regenerative Organic Certification in 2022. This impressive vertical collection, spanning from 1982 to 2021, will be sold as a single lot, consisting of one 750ml bottle from each vintage. The auction is poised to commence on September 4th and conclude on September 18th, with expectations that it will realize between US$10,000 and US$20,000.
Chris Munro, Head of Wine and Spirits for Christie's Americas, lauded the collection's historical significance and sentimental value, emphasizing its pristine condition and direct consignment from the Novak family, who have meticulously preserved these wines. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the estate's farming practices; the proceeds from the auction will benefit Napa Green, a consultancy focused on assisting wine businesses in reducing their carbon footprint. Munro expressed honor in bringing such a historically rich offering to market while simultaneously contributing to an important environmental cause, aligning with the Novak family's profound dedication to ecological responsibility.
The impeccable cellaring of each bottle by the Novak family guarantees the collection's exceptional provenance and condition, a crucial factor for such rare vintages, particularly those from the earlier years where quantities are now exceedingly limited. In addition to acquiring this forty-bottle collection, the successful bidder will receive an exclusive invitation to Spottswoode’s Annual Vertical Tasting. This event, scheduled for November 10th, offers a unique opportunity to taste the last twenty vintages with Beth Novak, the current president and CEO, providing unparalleled insight into the vineyard's evolution over two decades. This marks the first time such an invitation has been extended to a member of the public, adding an extraordinary element to an already remarkable acquisition.
This unprecedented auction of Spottswoode's complete Cabernet Sauvignon vertical not only celebrates the estate's rich winemaking heritage but also champions a vital cause, promising an invaluable acquisition for a fortunate collector while making a tangible contribution to environmental sustainability within the wine region.