While merchant confidence has declined across the fine wine industry, the confidence score among auction houses actually increased by 21.4% in 2025, signaling long-term conviction in collectable assets.
This increase in auctioneer confidence contrasts with the cautious outlook among specialist merchants and importers. The data suggests that major auction platforms remain bullish on the long-term collectability and scarcity of top-tier wines, even as prices adjust on broader trading platforms. Recent December auction results support this, showing strong hammer prices for iconic labels like 1996 Salon Blanc De Blancs (£775), 1996 Domaine Leroy Corton Charlemagne, and historic Bordeaux. This continued high-level performance reinforces the auction market's role as a barometer for the most secure investment-grade wine.
Source: Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News (Wine Lister Report), 2025-12-08; December 2025 Fine & Rare Wines Auction Results
