NEW YORK – The Exceptional Private Cellar of a Silicon Valley Pioneer was offered on 5 June at Christie’s Rockefeller Center, achieving $3,230,175, with the sale concluding 100% sold by lot and 132% sold by low estimate. This outstanding result underscores both the depth of the single‑owner collection and the continued strength of the fine‑wine market.
The top lot of the auction was Domaine Georges Roumier, Bonnes‑Mares 1971 (6 bottles), which realized $100,000, nearly tripled its high estimate. Additional notable results included Domaine de la Romanée‑Conti, La Tâche 1990 (11 bottles), which also achieved $100,000; Domaine Dujac, Clos Saint‑Denis 1985 (12 bottles), selling for $93,750 against a low estimate of $60,000; and Domaine Armand Rousseau, Chambertin‑Clos de Bèze 1985 (10 bottles), which realized $81,250.
In addition to the standout Burgundy results, all categories were strongly represented, with exceptional prices achieved across American, Italian, and spirits offerings. Notable highlights included Gemello, ‘ Gemello’s Selection’ Cabernet Sauvignon 1970, which realized $9,375, nearly four times its low estimate; Van Winkle Kentucky Straight Bourbon Special Reserve 19‑Year‑Old, selling for $20,000; and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. 1973 (6 bottles), which achieved $25,000, surpassing its high estimate. Additional lots which performed exceptionally well, include Heitz Cellar Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1974 (8 bottles) selling for $30,000, doubling its low estimate. Beyond the U.S., Italian and French white wine categories also saw strong demand: Giacomo Conterno Barolo Monfortino Riserva 1961 (8 bottles) realized $8,125, more than four times its low estimate, while Domaine Jean‑Marie Raveneau Chablis Blanchot 1989 (6 bottles) sold for $11,875, nearly doubling its high estimate.
Chris Munro, Head of Wine, Americas, comments: “The Exceptional Cellar of a Silicon Valley Pioneer achieved incredible results across all categories reflecting the superb provenance, the collectors discerning eye and the strong world-wide demand for the world’s rarest wines. A collection built over 50 years by a knowledgeable collector who enjoyed his wine throughout his lifetime of collecting, has now found new collectors who can appreciate these remarkable treasures.”
(Press Release)
