Sotheby’s London Wine auction on 12 October 2016 opens with an important private collection of great Bordeaux from top châteaux, spanning eight decades. Highlights from this collection include La Mission Haut Brion and Pétrus 1982, followed by Lafite and Mouton from the 1996, 1998 and 2000 vintages. Historic vintages of the First Growths are a feature of the other three important collections in the sale, headlined by Latour 1908, Margaux 1945 and an impressive range of Mouton, encompassing the landmark vintages of 1945, 1947, 1959 and 1961.

For those looking for younger Bordeaux, a collection from the more affordable end of the magnificent 2009 vintage, where quality often overtakes price, will undoubtedly appeal.

These wonderful Bordeaux collections are rounded off with Yquem from such fabulous vintages as 1874, 1921 and 1967, respectively described by Serena Sutcliffe, MW, as ‘A top Sauternes vintage and a great Yquem’, ‘A pinnacle of its century’ and ‘A vinous monument’.

Amongst the Burgundy highlights are Domaine de la Romanée Conti, ranging from single bottles of Romanee Conti 1976 and La Tâche 1978 to a full case of Richebourg 1989 in owc, a selection of wines from Gros Frère et Soeur and Jean Grivot and a case of Chevalier Montrachet 1999 from Domaine Leflaive.

This sale is brimming with Champagne and large formats in time for the festive season but also ideal for any celebratory occasion. Parcel quantities of Dom Pérignon and Krug, including Clos du Mesnil from the 2000 vintage, magnums of Cristal 1989 and a 3-litre jeroboam of the 1999 Cristal are all waiting to be popped. Whilst for a really special dinner, there is a mouth-watering selection of Bordeaux and Sassicaia in double magnum and no fewer than 30 6-litre imperials, including 14 different vintages of Mouton.