About Aged Wines…Madison Auction “Wine Cigar Talk” Series Season 1 - EP 4

Many wine lovers might hesitate to purchase an aged wine with a dirty label, assuming the wine inside may also be spoiled. However, Jessica holds a different perspective. She believes that as long as the bottle is in good condition, as indicated by the vintage and ullage, it is still worth buying. Aged wines with “ugly” labels usually have less competition and are more affordable, making them a good choice for self-drinking.
If you encounter “ugly” labels caused by stains, Jessica's advice is to consider the ullage, the presence of a cork bulge, etc., to avoid the pitfalls of leaking aged wines. Therefore, when bidding for aged wines from an auction house, it is advisable not only to request a detailed picture of the lot but also to carefully read the condition notes of the lot.
Another important factor to consider is the packaging of aged wine. Have you heard of OWC and OC? If your budget allows, Jessica recommends investing in aged wines in original wooden cases that have been handled less and resold, ensuring a more guaranteed condition.
Jessica has many more useful tips for buying aged wines. Remember to stay tuned for the “Wine & Cigar Talk” series!