Les Primeurs: A Bordeaux Tradition

“En primeurs”, what is it?

This is a very special period for the wine, which is at this time only in the middle of its barrel aging period, well before being bottled. At this stage, the vintage undergoes a series of tests, ratings and evaluations that will continue throughout its lifetime.

This early rating allows buyers to reserve bottles a year in advance at an advantageous price compared to 'deliverables', i.e. vintages already bottled.

Historically, Bordeaux primeurs are originally an even earlier sale since it was based on the evaluation of the grapes "on the vine", that is to say on the vine itself. This practice dates back to the 18th century.

Slowly the protocol evolved: buyers once came to the property to judge and pre-purchase during the harvest (September), and now it is in April that a week of tasting of the vintage of the wine is established in Bordeaux. 'last year.

The great châteaux compete with each other to best accommodate journalists, critics, agents, brokers, merchants and sommeliers. They will be able to get an idea of ​​the quality of the vintage being produced and prepare for marketing.

This is an intense, crucial period, both for properties and for traders. A real rally!

We have decided to reserve this advantage for Club Charmail members, and we are proud of this commitment. If you have the means to properly store wine, this is ideal for you!