HIGH OUTLOOK FOR THE 2005 BORDEAUX VINTAGE

Wines from the new 2005 Bordeaux vintage may possibly earn 10-30% more than last year, with top growths challenging records set in the 2000s. Ideal growing conditions helped produce unusually high-quality, well-structured wines according to buyers who attended vineyard tastings this month. However, since the wine is still maturing in barrels and won’t be ready for at least another two years or more, buyers are using the wine futures market to secure allocations which merchants hold for them in bond. Prices will be established in mid-to late-May.