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127-Year-Old Wine Opened: A Taste of History
6 Feb
Summary
- An 1899 Romanée-Conti, valued at €100,000, was uncorked.
- The wine was discovered after being undervalued at auction.
- Investor Soo Hoo Khoon Peng chose connection over speculation.
A 127-year-old bottle of 1899 Romanée-Conti, a wine of mythical status, was recently opened by Singaporean businessman Soo Hoo Khoon Peng. This 'unicorn' bottle, verified by its pristine cork, was estimated to be worth €100,000. Its lineage traces back to the French noble family de Brou de Laurière.
Remarkably, the bottle lay forgotten for decades before being sold for a mere few dozen euros at a local auction due to its damaged label. An astute buyer eventually brought it to Soo Hoo, who acquired it for his 50th birthday celebration.
Soo Hoo, a respected figure in the international wine scene, hosted a gathering to share the wine with experts, including Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of DRC. This act contrasts with the typical trade of such valuable bottles as trophies.
The 1899 vintage, made from ungrafted Pinot Noir vines, survived two World Wars and significant historical events. Its survival, indicated by its bright red color and minimal ullage, is a testament to its quality and impeccable cellaring conditions.
During the tasting, the wine revealed evolved notes of dried flowers, tea, and preserved plum with a delicate freshness. Experts described its purity and elegance as beyond comprehension, calling the survival of such a bottle a miracle. Soo Hoo stated his belief that opening such a bottle is an act of respect for the vineyard and the shared experience.
