A 127-Year-Old Bottle of Wine: The Moment of Truth on Opening History

In a remarkable event held in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Burgundy, France, a rare 1899 Romanée-Conti wine was uncorked, captivating a select group of wine authorities. Known for its legendary status and extensive history, this bottle from one of the most prestigious vineyards, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), was considered a “unicorn” among wine enthusiasts.

The Romanée-Conti wine is sought after by collectors and has fetched staggering prices at auction; a 1945 vintage sold for a record $558,000. The 1899 bottle, featuring a weathered label and identified by an ‘1899’ cork, was recently uncovered by Singaporean businessman and wine investor Soo Hoo Khoon Peng, who decided to share this precious find instead of keeping it as a trophy. He emphasized that sharing the experience is more valuable than status itself.

Experts estimate the bottle’s worth at about €100,000 ($118,000), a figure that underscores the significance of its provenance. Originally purchased by a French noble family, it remained untouched for decades before being recognized and salvaged from obscurity at a local auction.

Soo Hoo’s decision to open the bottle was momentous, taking place among renowned wine connoisseurs, including Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of DRC. With a background in wine investment and ownership of vineyards, Soo Hoo is a key figure in the wine industry, advocating for the shared experience over commodification.

The 1899 Romanée-Conti represents a lost craft, made from ungrafted Pinot Noir vines—a rarity due to the effects of the phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th century. The bottle’s journey through both World Wars and a century of careful preservation is a testament to its quality. Its vibrant color and unique flavor profile, described as a blend of dried flowers, tea, and preserved plum, showcase that this wine is very much alive.

When the moment of tasting came, the bottle revealed an amber hue and evolved aromas. Experts were relieved and astounded by its condition. Soo Hoo expressed satisfaction, highlighting that true enjoyment comes from experiencing the wine rather than seeing it as a mere investment.

As the day unfolded, the sun broke through the clouds, providing a fitting backdrop to this historic moment in the world of wine, demonstrating the value of friendship and shared experiences over mere ownership.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!