En Primeur Pros and Cons
En primeur, the Bordeaux tradition in which négociants buy fine wine on spec, began in the 1800’s. After the Classification of 1855 there needed to be a way for châteaux to recoup costs of the season even though the harvests’ wines would not be bottled for years. Every year barrel tastings are held, hinting at, but not guaranteeing the final product. Originally the reduced prices négociants got for buying in good faith were passed along, but as Bordeaux became a premium product desired by those with the funds to spend, en primeur tasting seems less important. What is important? Click through to read why the tradition stands!
Related Link: Bordeaux, ‘En Primeur’, and the Irrational Romance of French Wine Tradition
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