The key players

The Bordeaux first growths, Petrus, and the top Pomerol and Saint-Emilion estates form the backbone of the investment-grade Bordeaux market. In Burgundy, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti produces the wines that have generated the most extraordinary auction results. Henri Jayer, now deceased, produced wines whose secondary market prices reflect the permanent scarcity of his production. Sotheby's and Christie's both run significant fine wine auction operations

Acker Merrall and Condit specialises in Burgundy. Hart Davis Hart is the leading American specialist. Berry Bros and Rudd, Justerini and Brooks, and Corney and Barrow are the leading traditional London merchants.

CollectorGrade take

The Burgundy market rewards patience and relationships. Access to allocations from the most sought-after domaines requires years of buying from merchants with whom the domaines have longstanding relationships. Start those relationships early.