Undoubtably 2011 was a solid reminder to the fine wine market. Since June 2005 the market grew imperiously without any regard for the ensuing global economic data that surrounded it. Huge price rises became the norm seeing most wines double in the 6 years, many in fact tripled or even quadrupled with a handful going tenfold. Fine wine became the best performing asset in the world, only gold got close enough. According to Liv-ex during these 6 years the market rose 260%. As prices increased in the secondary market then the chateau release prices rose in tandem. In June 2011 the first growth prices were 550-650 euros compare that against June 2005 when they were 80-90 euros.

During the last 12 months the fine wine market as a whole is down just over 20% while some wines have dropped 45%. The First Growths have suffered most falling 26%. Clearly nothing can continue to go up continuously. The market is purging itself and soon will it be a time to buy?