Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction
The Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction, known in French as "Vente des Vins des Hospices de Beaune," is one of the most renowned wine auctions in the world, taking place annually on the third Sunday of November in Beaune, France. This event not only marks the beginning of the wine auction season but also plays a significant role in the culture and economy of the Burgundy wine region.
History
The auction's origins trace back to 1443 when Chancellor Rolin and his wife Guigone de Salins founded the Hospices de Beaune, a charitable institution for the care of the poor and sick. The hospital's endowment included vineyards, and over time, these holdings grew through donations. By 1859, the Hospices de Beaune began auctioning off the wines from these vineyards to raise funds for the institution, marking the start of the auction tradition.
Event Details
- Date: Traditionally held on the third Sunday of November.
- Location: The auction takes place in the courtyard of the Hospices de Beaune.
- Purpose: Funds raised from the auction support the maintenance of the Hospices, including patient care and the preservation of the historic buildings.
- Wine: Over 500 barrels (or pièces) of wine from the Hospices' vineyards are auctioned. These include both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from prestigious appellations like Corton, Corton-Charlemagne, Mazis-Chambertin, and others.
- Format: The auction is a live event, where buyers bid for the wines in barrels, which are then typically aged by the purchasing négociant or domaine before being bottled and sold.
Significance
The Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction has several layers of significance:
- Cultural Heritage: It showcases the tradition of winemaking in Burgundy, highlighting the region's viticultural history and the unique terroir.
- Economic Impact: The auction sets a benchmark for wine prices for the forthcoming vintage, influencing the market dynamics of Burgundy wines.
- Charity: The funds raised directly support the Hospices de Beaune, contributing to healthcare and historical preservation efforts.
- Global Attention: The event attracts wine enthusiasts, collectors, and professionals from around the world, elevating Beaune's status in the international wine community.
Notable Moments
- In 1985, the auction began using numbered barrels, allowing buyers to choose specific lots.
- In 2009, the auction made headlines when a single barrel fetched a record price, showcasing the high demand for these wines.
- The auction has occasionally included special lots like a barrel of wine from the President's Garden, which is a symbolic lot often fetching high prices for its rarity and prestige.
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