2/10/2023 – Saint Helena, CA – Today, bidding begins on rare Napa Valley wines available through the prestigious Premiere Napa Valley wine auction. On offer through Sotheby’s are more than 150 unique Premiere Napa Valley wine lots. In addition are more than 50 lots of late release winery selections through the Vintage Perspective Auction.
“Each year, our winemaking community looks forward to creating one-of-a-kind wines exclusively for Premiere Napa Valley. These wines are a hallmark of our region, shining a light on our spirit of innovation and commitment to quality winemaking,” said Priyanka French, Premiere Napa Valley Steering Committee Chair and Winemaker for Signorello Estate.
27th Annual Premiere Napa Valley
Premiere Napa Valley lots range in size from 60 to 240 bottles, making them Napa Valley’s rarest commercially available wines. Bidding is now available and will culminate in a live-streaming online auction beginning at 1 p.m. PST on Saturday, February 25.
“Some of the world’s greatest and most sought-after wines come from Napa Valley and Premiere Napa Valley exemplifies this by offering unique cuvées selected, blended and crafted to showcase the highest quality from inspired winemakers,” said Jamie Ritchie, Worldwide Chairman, Sotheby’s Wine & Spirits.
Debuting at this year’s auction is the 2021 Napa Valley vintage described by winemakers as a joyful growing season with an uneventful harvest.
“The 2021 vintage will be remembered for near-perfect weather. Low yields and small, flavor-packed berries created outstanding wines. It is an absolute joy to showcase this incredible vintage and its complex reds at Premiere Napa Vally,” said French.
Vintage Perspective Auction
In the Vintage Perspective Auction are more than 50 older vintage wine lots from the 2004 – 2013 vintages, ideal for any trade account, particularly restaurants, interested in ready-to-drink wines for their portfolio. Bidding is now open, and will close online at 4 p.m. PST on Saturday, February 25.
“When you are fortunate to taste older vintages from the greatest Napa Valley producers, there is no doubt that they develop slowly, gain in depth and complexity and reward those that are patient enough to resist pulling the cork earlier,” said Ritchie.
Global Online Bidding
Buyers can bid online from anywhere in the world. An array of tastings, both virtually and in person, will take place leading up to the auction in Napa Valley, London, Paris and Hong Kong. Open for all to attend virtually is a seminar hosted by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW on February 21 titled “The Road to Individualism: Napa Valley’s 20-Year Style Diversity Revolution”. To place a bid, buyers must be a licensed member of the wine trade.
All proceeds from Premiere Napa Valley fund programs to promote, protect and enhance Napa Valley.
About Napa Valley Vintners
The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its nearly 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. Since 1981, the NVV has invested more than $225 million in its community to provide equitable access to healthcare and opportunity for advancement in children’s education. NVV is dedicated to improving diversity and championing inclusivity in its community and in the wine industry. Learn more at napavintners.com.
About Sotheby’s
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.