Burgundy has long been revered for its scarcity and prestige, but today’s market marks an exceptional moment to explore the diversity of this hallowed region across a range of appellations and vintages.

With prices softening and more stock re-entering the market, Burgundy’s mystique is now closer than ever.

The current market environment presents a rare buying opportunity given the region’s unprecedented bull run over the last decade. Between October 2020 and October 2022 alone, Burgundy prices rose over 70% on average, with no signs of slowing down over the long term.

However, in the past year, prices have softened by 15%, and the availability of older vintages has increased significantly. For a region defined by scarcity, this shift is remarkable.

Collectors can now explore a broader selection of wines at more approachable price points, including rare gems from renowned producers and vintages. On Westgarth Wines, buyers now have immediate access to:

• Over 150 full cases from vintages pre-2000, dating back to 1978.

• 160 different Burgundy labels in various case sizes from the acclaimed 2005 vintage.

• 600 different wines in various case sizes from both 2009 and 2010 vintages.

This unprecedented access to mature, ready-to-drink wines represents an unmissable chance to build or enhance a cellar.

Burgundy’s older vintages are the stuff of legend, with wines offering unparalleled complexity, finesse, and longevity. Yet, older stock is notoriously difficult to find due to the region’s limited production and high demand. These wines often remain tightly held in private collections or command a premium at auction, making their availability in the market a true rarity.

Some standout older vintages and their current drinking windows include:

• 1985: A classic vintage with exquisite balance and elegance. Many wines from this year are at their peak now, offering beautifully integrated flavors and exceptional depth.

• 1990: Known for its richness and structure, this vintage continues to impress. Top-tier wines still have life ahead but are drinking magnificently today.

• 1999: A collector’s favorite for its power and longevity. Wines from this vintage are still developing and will reward further patience.

• 2005: Universally praised as one of Burgundy’s best modern vintages, its wines are beginning to show their potential, with the reds especially entering an optimal drinking window.

Meanwhile, Burgundy’s 2023 vintage is making its debut. This bountiful but heterogeneous vintage arrives with both potential and expectations. Surpassing the region’s average production levels by 30%, 2023 offers large quantities and above-average quality. However, the year’s climatic challenges - from heat to late-season flooding - mean careful selection is crucial.

Critics have praised the precision, transparency, and approachability of the 2023s, with whites outshining reds in many cases. Notable highlights include Bonnes-Mares for its opulence and structure, and mineral-driven whites from Puligny Caillerets and Meursault Perrières. Producers such as Domaine de la Vougeraie, Domaine Dujac, Jean Chartron, and Violot-Guillemard have emerged as top performers. As producers launch the 2023 vintage, stable or reduced pricing strategies reflect the desire to stimulate demand amidst a softened market.

With more and better-priced stock from older vintages creating competition for new releases, today’s Burgundy market is a collector’s dream. The combination of lower prices, increased availability, and the arrival of the promising 2023 vintage creates a wealth of opportunity. The question left is: how long will you wait to drink your Burgundy?

Want to read more? Take a look at some of our other blogs:

• • Discover Bonnes-Mares in 6 wines
  • Domaine Faiveley: tradition and innovation in Burgundy and beyond
  • Domaine Dujac: a testament to the diversity of Burgundy