Recent weeks have seen a number of key releases from Champagne, including the releases of the 2006 vintage from both Dom Perignon and Taittinger at £920 and £800 per 12×75 respectively.
As the chart above shows, the 2006 has come to market at a similar level as recent vintages which have yet to appreciate in value on the secondary market. With consecutive vintages declared, these wines are still showing ample supply.
Once supply begins to diminish, prices rise: signs of appreciation are visible amongst vintages earlier than and including the 2000. Taittinger 1996, which has the highest market price of the wines shown above, has a first recorded Market Price of £630 per 12×75 (in June 2003). With a current value of £1,896, it has gained 200% since.
With a number of vintages declared back-to-back, an abundance of stock has been released into the market – and according to critic scores, the quality has not declined. The 2004 from both houses in particular – with comparative scores and several years in bottle – appear to offer relative value. Perhaps this represents an opportunity for those willing to wait.
