Here's a quick look at the fine wine markets. According to wine market analysts at Liv-Ex, there are plenty of reasons for collectors to celebrate in 2012.
Last month, Simon Staples, Hong Kong head of sales and marketing at wine broker Berry Bros & Rudd, said that his clients were looking to buy "Bordeaux second growths and the top 10 names in Burgundy."
Meanwhile, auctioneer Bonhams - which has just posted a 50% increase in its fine wine sales for the second year running - reported that first growth Bordeaux wines were the strongest performers at its recent sales.
So what's the latest new from the wine markets? Well, Liv-ex says that demand is broadening among collectors.
According to its findings, collectors are "no longer heavily concentrated in the First Growths."
A more diverse selection of wines could enjoy success in 2012's markets as a result. Liv-ex predicts that top labels from outside Bordeaux will be especially coveted.
 Rare DRC wines could be among the most valued bottles in 2012 |
As Paul recently wrote in his weekly column, the resilient fine wine markets are set to see less Bordeaux activity over the coming months (and First Growth trade is currently reduced according to Live-ex).
Bordeaux wines have been commanding lower market values in recent times.
Less sales of Bordeaux should tighten up prices in 2012 - especially as the global fine wine markets attract increasing numbers of collectors from around the world.
Big upcoming wine sales include at Hart Davis Hart on February 4and Bonhams on February 9, both of which are offering rare Domaine Romanee-Conti (DRC) wines among their top lots.
Values of DRC wines are expected to remain high this year because DRC wines are produced in such small quantities. Again, it's all down to supply and demand.
Watch this space for more news from the global fine wine markets.
