The earliest known production of wine, dates back thousands of years to 6000 BC in ancient Georgia. Over 8000 years later, and wine is still one of the most popular drinks in all corners from the globe. Whether it be cabernet-merlot, pinot grigio, sparkling champagne, or anything in between, there’s a perfect wine for every occasion and that’s what makes it such a great beverage!
It’s probably safe to say that with the exception of holidays and special events, most of us stick to our favourite table wines for everyday sipping–most of which range between $10-$20 in price…but just in case you’re looking to indulge, we’ve rounded up five of the most expensive vintages across the world.
Richebourg Grand Cru wines are some of the most opulent pinot noir wines in the world. The word “richebourg” translates directly to “rich town”. How it got that name is a mystery, but we wouldn’t be surprised if it has something to do with how much wine they sell!
You’ll be hard pressed to find this varietal in any vintage for less than a few thousand dollars, but 1978 seems to be the golden year for Richebourg Grand Cru, with bottles selling for anywhere from $13,000 to $16,000.
If you’re dying to try one of Henri Jayer’s masterpieces but can’t afford to drop almost twenty grand on one bottle, you’re in luck. The CrosParantouxVosne–a spicy, smoky Burgundy with hints of cherry, can be bought for anywhere between $4000-$5000. A steal of a deal compared to the price tag on its big brother, Richebourg Grand Cru.
Not a fan of red wine? That’s okay, we’ve got something light and sparkly that might suit your fancy. Cristal, a known favourite of celebrities and specifically the hip hop crowd is not known for being cheap…even when it’s bought in bulk. In 2005, a six-litre, gold-labeled bottle of Cristal Brut 1990, dubbed the “Methuselah” was sold at Sotheby’s auction in New York. We hope the lucky buyer shared his purchase!
In 1916, the Russian Imperial family ordered multiple cases of Champagne from the Heidsieck vineyard. Sadly, they never reached their destination when a shipwreck off the coast of Finland caused over 200 bottles of “bubbly” to be lost at sea. The bottles were discovered in 1997, and are being sold at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Moscow for $275,000.