Fresh produce, how it works

Buying wine before it is even bottled, sometimes two years in advance, may seem surprising… and yet, it is one of the best ways to access the big names in wine at a preferential price.

In this article, we explain everything about how en primeur wines work: definition, advantages, points to watch out for, practical advice, and how Cavissima helps you build a cellar that suits you.

What exactly is "en primeur" wine?

Wine sold en primeur is wine sold before bottling, while it is still aging, usually in barrels. This system mainly concerns the great wines of Bordeaux, but it now extends to other regions such as the Burgundy, THE Rhône or the Loire.

Each spring, professionals taste these "up-and-coming" wines, and enthusiasts can... to bookDelivery takes place approximately 18 to 24 months later, once the wine has been bottled and labeled.

Did you know that? The term first does not refer to a new wine like Beaujolais Nouveau, but to a wine for aging, offered for reservation before its official release.

Why buy wine en primeur?

Get access to the finest wines before anyone else

The en primeur system allows you to reserve iconic vintages. from their developmentwell before their regular release to the market. Some estates drastically limit their production: buying en primeur is then the only way to guarantee your allocation.

Take advantage of a special introductory price

The price of en primeur wines is often lower than the price displayed after bottlingThis is the perfect opportunity to buy a wine that you absolutely want to have in your cellar, at a preferential price.

Create a personalized wine cellar

Buying en primeur means anticipating tomorrow's pleasures. You choose the estates, vintages, and formats that suit you, for create a wine cellar that reflects your style, with vintages available at the right time.

What are the points to consider before buying?

A purchase that requires planning ahead

Once your order is confirmed, it cannot be reversed. It's best to thoroughly research the... domaine, the vintage and style of the wine before confirming their choice.

Delivery delays to be expected

The wines are delivered approximately 18 to 24 months after purchase, once the breeding process is complete. It's a specific process that requires a little patience.

A partial taste evaluation

Wines still aging can be difficult for a novice to judge. Hence the importance of relying on... expert advice, or to trusted selections.

How to buy your wine en primeur (pre-release) wisely?

Here are the 5 key steps To buy with peace of mind:

1. Choose a recognized specialist
   Cavissima works directly with the estates and guarantees the authenticity, preservation and delivery of each bottle.

2. Analyze the vintages and the reviews
   Experts (Wine Advocate, Vinous, James Suckling, etc.) publish their impressions first. Their assessments are invaluable in guiding your choice.

3. Compare the prices and positioning of domaine
   Observing release prices and comparing them to previous vintages helps to identify good opportunities.

4. Think about your personal tastes
   Bordeaux right or left? Buy wines that you like, that you will want to open when mature.

5. Anticipate your cellar needs
   Choose the appropriate formats (bottles, magnums) and distribute your purchases according to your future tasting preferences.

Cavissima, your partner for en primeur wines

For over 10 years, Cavissima has been offering a personalized support For all enthusiasts wishing to buy en primeur (early release) with complete peace of mind:

• Selection reviewed by our experts
  Each wine is presented with its characteristics, pairings, and ratings from leading critics.

• Price and vintage analysis
  We help you compare release prices with previous vintages and identify the best-positioned vintages.

• Secure storage
  Your wines are stored in a professional cellar, under the best conditions, until they are delivered or managed via your online cellar.

Buy in first course, It means choosing a carefully curated wine cellar, built on your desires, your tastes, and your knowledge of the fields.

With personalized support, you can build your future wine cellar with peace of mind, and savor each bottle at the right time.

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