Large Format Wines: Why you should go BIG

Is bigger really better? How big is too big?

To the first question we can confidently say yes, there are definite advantages to investing in large format wines. While size can range from the magnum, which equals two bottles, all the way up to the grand daddy of them all, the Nebuchadnezzar, which is equal to twenty bottles of wine; how big you want to go is really up to you and how much you’re prepared to lift.

So what are the benefits to investing in large format bottles (other than the obvious cool factor)?

The answer is two-fold: age-ability and collectability

Especially if you plan on cellaring your wine for an extended period of time, think of large format bottles as a way to protect your investment.  Bottle size will directly affect the way the wine ages. Wine stored in a large format bottle ages more slowly because the ratio of air that comes in contact with the wine is significantly reduced. Larger volumes of liquid also means it  takes longer for these wines to heat and cool making them more resistant to temperature changes. So not only will these wines age better and longer, they will produce more robust flavors  upon opening.

From a collecting perspective there are several factors that make large format bottles so desirable and sought after. First and foremost, large formats are rare! Wineries who produce wines in large format will only produce a limited a quantity. Large-format bottles are often reserved for special collectors, charity auctions, winery displays or private collections of the proprietors or their friends and family. Many large-format bottles are often special releases used to showcase outstanding vintages or to mark a winery’s special occasion. Due to the limited supply and high allocation, you can imagine that these wines often fetch a pretty high price. While the officially recognized most expensive bottle of wine is a 1947 Cheval Blanc, a 6 liter bottle of 1992 Screaming Eagle sold in 2000 for $500,000 making it unofficially the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at auction (it is often discounted because it was sold at a charity auction).From a collectors standpoint the presentation and impressive stature of  these bottles along with the scarcity, quickly turns them into the crown jewel of any cellar.

And the good news is you don’t need half a million dollars to reap the benefits of buying in large format. We offer many beautiful wines in these unconventional sizes, this is one of our favorites:

2010 Oakville Winegrowers Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine Spectrum 96+: points! Each year, acclaimed vintners of the Oakville Winegrowers Association contribute small lots of their prestigious Cabernet Sauvignon to create a unique wine that reflects the essence of the Oakville appellation. The vintners have blended a spectacular cuvee that celebrates the majesty of these vineyards. For the serious collector, this is a rare gift to be treasured for years to come. Aromas of cherry, spiced plum and cocoa lead into a wine of medium plus body with a sumptuous texture and lengthy finish. The flavors are classic for Oakville Cabernet with plum, chocolate and cherry showing prominently at this tasting with a thrilling balance of structure and acid in this exceptional wine. The finish persists for 30-45 seconds offering nuanced flavors Oakville Cuvee 1500mL