Despite rising prices for luxury wines, overall wine has never offered better value. Mid-tier wines in the $20–$60 range are significantly higher in quality than they were 20 years ago, thanks to improved vineyard management, modernized winemaking, and a focus on authenticity over quantity. Falling global demand, particularly in regions like Bordeaux, has led to oversupply, which keeps prices reasonable for many excellent wines. At the same time, previously overlooked regions—such as Crete, Etna, Portugal, and parts of Spain and France—now produce outstanding wines at accessible prices. While rare and trendy luxury bottles have soared in cost, the broader wine market has entered a golden era of quality, diversity, and value for everyday consumers.
Tasting notes from my November trip to Burgundy for the Hospices de Beaune Auction
Just back from Beaune, and the 2024s and 2025s are absolutely captivating! From Dujac’s elegant Morey Saint Denis to the Hospices de Beaune’s tiny but stunning reds and whites, and Pascal Marchand’s Vosne-Romanée and Pommard shining with power and finesse—there’s so much to explore. Meursault proves to be the sweet spot of 2024 with vibrant, floral, mineral whites, and Lafarge, Lafarge-Vial, and Comtes Lafon deliver stunning Volnays and Pulignys. Small harvests, huge character—read on for full tasting notes and all the standout wines.
